How to Eat Confidently With New Dentures

When you first get them, adjusting to new dentures can feel impossible, especially when it comes to enjoying your favorite meals. However, learning to eat with dentures is essential for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable diet. At our dental practice, we understand the challenges you face so no matter if you have a full set or only a partial, our Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentists are here to offer practical tips to help you navigate the transition smoothly.

Here’s how, with a bit of patience and practice, you can learn to once again eat your daily meals with renewed confidence and comfort.

For Those Now Wearing Dentures, Try:

Starting Easy with Softer Foods

When you first get your dentures, your mouth needs time to adjust. Our dentists urge you to start with soft foods that require minimal chewing. Options like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce are gentle on your gums and easy to manage. Gradually introduce more solid foods as you become more comfortable with your dentures.

There’s no shame in sticking to liquids in those first few days that you have complete dentures. While it can be easier to accommodate a partial denture in less time, false teeth replacing the upper and lower arches of your mouth takes longer. For a couple days after your dentures are given to you, try soups, smoothies, applesauce, and more before you feel fine transitioning to solid options.

Cutting Food into Smaller Pieces

Breaking your food down into smaller, bite-sized pieces can make a significant difference. This practice not only makes chewing easier but also reduces the risk of dislodging your dentures. In turn, you can more efficiently navigate eating with dentures and get used to how your mouth moves now that the false teeth are in place.

Encouraging Yourself to Chew Evenly on Both Sides

One of the common issues denture wearers face is the tendency to chew on one side of the mouth. Unfortunately, this can cause your full dentures to become unstable. To avoid this, make a conscious effort to chew evenly on both sides. We know that it can be tough at first but doing this distributes the pressure more equally and helps keep your dentures in place.

Using Helpful Denture Adhesives

Denture adhesives can provide additional stability and confidence while eating. These products create a stronger bond between your dentures and gums, reducing movement and making it easier to chew tougher foods. However, it’s essential to use them as directed and consult with our dentists to find the best adhesive for your needs.

If you’re constantly using adhesive to fix a fit issue, you may want to call our Plantation, FL, dental office so we can schedule a time to have you in for a more proper adjustment.

Staying Away From Sticky and Hard Foods

Certain foods can pose challenges for denture wearers. Sticky foods like caramel and taffy can pull at your dentures, while hard foods like nuts and hard candies can cause them to shift or even break. It’s best to avoid these types of foods or consume them with caution, ensuring your dentures remain secure and intact.

Being Patient and Taking Your Time

Eating with dentures can take some getting used to, so be patient with yourself. Take your time while eating, and don’t rush through meals. Chew slowly and thoroughly to ensure your food is adequately broken down. This not only helps with digestion but also prevents discomfort and potential denture movement.

Continuing to Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for denture wearers. Clean your dentures daily to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture-specific cleaner. Additionally, brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth to keep your mouth healthy and fresh.

Staying Hydrated

Dry mouth can be a common issue for denture wearers, making it harder to chew and swallow food. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth moist and aids in the production of saliva, which is essential for comfortable eating. Be sure to also avoid or, at the very least, limit excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, as both can contribute to dry mouth.

Prioritizing a Balanced Diet

While there may be some limitations, it’s still possible to enjoy a balanced and nutritious diet with dentures. Focus on incorporating a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains. Explore different cooking methods, such as steaming and slow-cooking, to make foods more denture-friendly.

Make an Appointment

Our denture dentists serving Plantation and Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, are always here to help. If you’re struggling a little with brand new dentures, you’re not alone and we’re only a phone call away. Reach out to Barr Dental Group today at (954) 327-7400 to request an appointment!