Eating with Dentures: Are They Affecting Your Nutrition?

If you’ve recently started wearing dentures, you might still be adjusting to all the changes and wondering how they’ll affect your life. One question that often comes up is whether dentures can affect your nutrition. Ultimately, yes, they can, but it’s not all bad news! With the right strategy, you can keep your diet healthy and enjoy a variety of foods. If you want to learn how, continue reading!

Dentures Can Change the Way Approach Food

When you first get dentures, there’s an adjustment period as you learn to chew and bite with your new teeth. This can make eating certain foods a bit tricky at first, especially harder or more fibrous foods like apples, carrots, or steak. It’s understandable that this can be discouraging, leading you to consider skipping over these items altogether.

However, this line of thinking can lead to nutritional deficiencies that might affect your health. For example, if you find it difficult to eat crunchy fruits and vegetables, you might be missing out on important vitamins and fiber. Similarly, avoiding tougher meats could mean you’re not getting enough protein.

Tips to Help You Get Proper Nutrition with Dentures

If you’re worried about big changes in your diet, it’s important to remember that dentures don’t have to be a limiter. By making a few adjustments, you can continue to enjoy a balanced and nutritious diet. Here are some tips to give you a head start:

Cut Food into Smaller Pieces

One of the simplest ways to make eating easier, even with tough foods like steak, is to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This reduces the effort needed to chew and makes it easier to enjoy a more diverse menu.

Cook Your Meals in a Different Way

If certain foods are too challenging to eat, try finding ways to cook them that will make them easier to process. For example, instead of raw carrots, steam them first. Instead of grilled steak, try a slow-cooked brisket. Smoothies are also a great way to get your daily serving of fruits and vegetables without chewing.

Take Your Time

Eating with dentures may take a bit more time, especially in the beginning. Even so, don’t rush your meals! Take the time to chew slowly and balance your bites on both sides of your mouth. This will ensure you’re getting the most out of your food.

Stay Hydrated

Dentures can sometimes cause dry mouth, which can make eating more difficult. Always have some water nearby while dining to keep your prosthetics moist and comfortable.

Regular Dental Checkups

Lastly, make sure to keep up with regular dental checkups. Your dentist can adjust your dentures to improve their fit and provide guidance on maintaining your oral health and nutrition.

While dentures may require some adjustments in your eating habits, they don’t have to mess up your menu. By being mindful of your diet and making small adjustments, you can continue to enjoy a healthy and balanced diet!

About the Practice

If you’re struggling with tooth loss, our dental experts at Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center have the skills and technology to help. We use quality materials to provide comfortable, natural-looking prosthetics to improve your quality of life. Don’t miss out on your favorite meals, call (203) 438-8919 to schedule a denture consultation or visit our website to learn more.