After struggling with tooth loss for many years, you are now able to smile again with your dentures. In addition to having additional confidence in your everyday life, you are now able to eat more foods without nearly as much struggle. However, you still need to be careful when enjoying some of your favorite dishes. Now that summer is rolling around, you may be able to use some extra advice when it comes to eating summertime foods with dentures. Here are some helpful tips.
Stick to Softer Foods
When you first get dentures, it might take you some time to get used to eating with them. Your gums may even feel a little bit sore for the first few weeks as you grow accustomed to them. As you are adjusting to your new smile, try to stick to softer foods, such as applesauce, oatmeal, mashed potato, and other foods of similar consistency.
Be Careful with Hot Foods
Whether you like coffee, tea, or another hot food or beverage, it is worth it to be careful. Dentures can have an insulating effect on your mouth, so you might not even realize that something is too hot for you to eat. You certainly don’t want to be dealing with burns on the soft tissues in in inside of your smile. If you are eating something after heating it up, be sure that you check the temperature and only take small bites.
Cut Your Food into Pieces
You shouldn’t try to take bites that are too big because they can be hard on your jaw, gums, and dentures. Even though it may not be the same as biting corn right off the cob, cutting the kernels off could save you quite a bit of trouble. Try cutting up your food before you begin eating it so you don’t accidentally forget.
Stay Hydrated
Starchy, carb-heavy foods can easily stick to your dentures. In order to prevent this, be sure that you are drinking plenty of liquids. This way, you can rinse away food particles that could otherwise get stuck to your smile.
Pick Meat Wisely
Many of us like to enjoy grilled and barbequed meats in the summertime, but some are much harder to chew than others. When you first get your dentures, it is a good idea to avoid things like steak and ribs. Try sticking to ground and slow-cooked meats to give yourself an easier time.
Consider Dental Implants
If you find eating with dentures to be a struggle, talk to your dentist about dental implants. Instead of being supported by the gums, implants are anchored into the jawbone. This allows greater stability, prevents bone loss, and gives you greater chewing power. Once they have healed completely, you should have no issues eating your favorite foods.
Dentures will make your life much easier, but it is still a good idea to take some precautions. This way, you can enjoy your new smile and the delicious cuisine that the warm weather has to offer!
About the Author
Dr. George A. Hoop is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over 30 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the Emory University School of Dentistry where he ranked second in his class. He has pursued further training from several prestigious institutions, including the Misch International Implant Institute, the Pikos Institute, the Pankey Institute, and the Dawson Academy. To learn more about dentures or to schedule an appointment at his office in Fort Myers, visit his website or call (239) 939-7299.