Transitioning to dentures can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to eating. Whether you have partial or full dentures, adapting to these changes in your mouth can take some time and patience. If you want to get back to eating something resembling your regular diet sooner, continue reading. You’ll find some practical tips to help you get used to eating with dentures and enjoy your meals again.
Start with Soft Foods
When you first get dentures, your gums and mouth need time to adapt. Begin with soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Options like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and cooked vegetables are gentle on your gums and don’t require much chewing. This gives your mouth a chance to get used to the new dentures without causing discomfort.
Cut Things into Smaller Pieces
To make eating more manageable, cut your food into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This reduces the effort needed to chew and minimizes the risk of biting your cheeks or tongue. It also helps prevent you from biting into food with your front teeth, reducing the likelihood of dislodging your dentures.
Chew Slowly and Evenly
Balance is the key to success when eating with dentures. At first, you’ll need to chew slowly biting down on your food with both sides of your prosthetics. This helps keep your dentures in place and distributes the pressure on your gums. Try to use your back teeth to break down food into smaller, manageable pieces for the best results with minimal effort.
Use Denture Adhesives
If you’re having trouble adjusting, denture adhesives can provide extra stability, especially when you’re still getting used to your prosthetics. They help keep your dentures in place, reducing movement and making it easier to chew. Follow the instructions on the packaging for proper use and consult your dentist if you have questions about which product is best for you.
Adapting to eating with dentures takes patience and practice, but with these tips, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. It’s important to remember that every new denture wearer goes through this adjustment period, and with time, eating will get easier. If you need more guidance, don’t hesitate to call your dentist for personalized advice!
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph is a passionate and professional dentist with over 25 years of experience. He earned his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and has stayed current on all things dentistry with hundreds of hours of continuing education. He is also the proud owner of Dental Development Seminars, providing hands-on training and lectures in several countries. Call (843) 488-4357 to schedule a denture consultation at American Dental Care or visit the website to explore other services.