Adjusting to dentures can be a challenging change, especially when it comes to your diet. While they do restore much of your ability to eat, some patients still have a difficult time working their favorite foods into their diet. But why is that? Do denture prosthetics change the way you look at food? They can—but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a balanced diet! Continue reading to learn how dentures affect eating habits and what you can do to stay healthy.
How Dentures Affect Eating
When you first get dentures, you might notice that certain foods feel different or are harder to chew. This is because prosthetic teeth don’t offer the same biting force as natural ones. As a result, some patients find it challenging to eat tough, crunchy, or sticky foods, which can lead to changes in their diet.
If you avoid these types of foods, you might miss out on essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, with a few adjustments and some mindfulness, you can continue to enjoy a varied and nutritious menu!
Tips for a Balanced Diet with Dentures
Healthy foods come in many forms, but some can be more difficult to eat than others. Here are some great nutritious options along with tips for adding them to your diet with ease:
- Choose Softer Alternatives: Instead of raw veggies, try to roast or steam them. If you’re craving meat, opt for more tender cuts and cook it slowly. You could go with ground meats, or protein-rich alternatives like eggs, tofu, and fish.
- Incorporate Nutrient-Rich Soups and Stews: These meals can be packed with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This method of slow-cooking to create a hardy stew softens the ingredients, making them easier to chew.
- Blend and Puree: Use a blender to create smoothies, pureed soups, and sauces. While it may remove some fiber from your ingredients, you can enjoy all the nutrients from fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens without the struggle of chewing.
- Stay Hydrated: While often overlooked, drinking plenty of water aids digestion and helps keep your mouth moist. This is especially important when wearing dentures to keep them comfortable while you chew.
While dentures can present challenges for your diet, they don’t have to stand in the way of your enjoyment of food. By choosing softer, nutrient-rich foods and using different cooking methods, you can continue to enjoy a wide variety of flavors and textures for a lifetime!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley is an accomplished dentist with over a decade of experience. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University. Since then, he has expanded his skills through hundreds of hours of continuing education and participation in multiple professional organizations. Call (321) 723-1772 to schedule a denture consultation at Rowley Family Dentistry or visit our website to explore other services.