As one of the most reliable tooth replacement options, dentures provide a lifelike and long-lasting method for renewing your bite and improving your smile. While they’re designed to help you regain the majority of your chewing power, they can still have limitations regarding certain types of meals and treats. Keep reading to learn which foods you should avoid so that you can maintain strong and stable dentures in the long run.
Sticky Foods
Traditional prosthetics are typically supported by your gum line and kept in place through natural suction or with the help of a mild adhesive. That said, some foods may be too sticky and can cause your dentures to be moved out of place. This means you’ll want to be careful with things like caramel, toffee, candy apples, and even chewing gum, otherwise your new teeth can end up coming off more easily.
Popcorn
If you enjoy movie nights, then you’re likely one to indulge in a bucket of popcorn now and then. You probably also know how annoying it can be whenever a kernel gets stuck between your teeth or beneath the gums. Likewise, these pieces can easily slip underneath your prosthetics and lead to irritation.
Nuts & Almonds
These types of treats are generally nutritious and great for your diet. Unfortunately, they also aren’t typically kind to prosthetics. Due to their tough texture, biting into them can end up shifting your dentures out of position. Furthermore, if you manage to break them down into smaller pieces, these can spread across your gums and cause irritation and discomfort.
Steak & Other Chewy Meals
Although steaks are incredibly tasty and a great source of protein, they can also be quite chewy and might be difficult to digest with your dentures. This can also go for other chewy and/or dry meats. For a more comfortable meal, you’ll want to consider ground meat, stews, pot roast, meatloaf, and other foods that are easier for chewing.
How You Can Improve Your Bite
If you feel like you’re struggling with eating and chewing properly and comfortably with your prosthetics, then you might consider consulting your dentist about alternative options. For instance, implant dentures can effectively restore your bite while also providing you with top-tier stability for your new pearly whites. By being directly supported via dental implants in the jawbone, you should be able to make the most of a completely lifelike and unmoving tooth replacement.
Keep the above tips in mind so that you can enjoy your meals without having to worry much about your dentures. Should you feel like upgrading your prosthetics, your dentist will be more than happy to help you achieve the strong bite you deserve!
About the Author
Dr. Khoi Le graduated from Nova Southeastern University to obtain his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. He has also undergone extensive training in various areas of dentistry, including implant surgery and restoration, and is a proud member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Academy of Osseointegration. If you’d like to learn more about our tooth-replacement options, visit our website or reach out to us today at 904-262-8449.