Dentures are a removable device fitted in the mouth to replace missing teeth. Depending on how many teeth are missing, you may need partial or full dentures. Partial dentures fill the space left by missing teeth, as well as keeping the remaining teeth straight. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are lost. Dentures are very common and make a big improvement in dental comfort, function, and confidence.
When eating with dentures, it’s important to take great care in order to avoid damaging the dentures or remaining teeth. It’s also normal for there to be discomfort, soreness, or swelling following tooth extraction and denture fitting. This should go away over time, making eating easier, but if the problem persists, you should go back to your dentist right away as there may be a problem with the fit.
While some people remove their dentures to eat, sometimes this isn’t desirable, especially if you’re out for dinner or at a social function. However, there are still restrictions when it comes to eating with dentures in.
Especially after first being fitted for dentures, and with lower dentures, which come loose easier, focus on eating food that is soft and easy to chew. Here are some examples of denture-friendly foods!
- Cooked Vegetables: Raw vegetables are some of the most difficult foods for denture wearers to eat. Cooked vegetables, however, are usually very soft and easy to chew. Things like cooked root vegetables and other starchy vegetables such as potatoes or yams are tasty and easier to eat with dentures.
- Pasta: Pasta is a great option for denture wearers. There’s also so much variety with types and sauces.
- Eggs: Unfortunately, certain breakfast foods like bacon, toast, and bagels are difficult for denture wearers to eat. Eggs are a good, protein-filled breakfast option that shouldn’t be hard to eat.
- Porridge: Another nutritious breakfast option, porridge can be flavoured and sweetened with milk, maple syrup, sugar, honey, and more!
- Smoothies: Smoothies are a delicious and easy way to pack nutrition into an easy-to-consume drink. You can play around with fruit and vegetables as ingredients and add superfoods to make them even healthier!
If you are unsure about any foods or are having trouble eating with dentures, it’s best to contact your dentist with any questions. If eating with dentures proves to be too difficult, there are other options such as dental implants or denture adhesives.