Are you about to get dentures in Mission Valley? One of the most common concerns people have at this stage is learning how to eat comfortably with their new prosthetics.
Dentures can make eating a little bit more difficult in the beginning; however, it’s important to understand that it’s not permanent. As you continue to wear your dentures and become more confident using them, you’ll be able to indulge in many of the same treats you used to.
Check out this short guide to learn how to prepare for eating with new dentures.
Eating With Dentures: the First Week
When you first put on your new dentures, you’ll likely feel strange. This is completely normal, as your mouth and gums simply need some time to adjust to them. But until that happens, it’s likely your gums will feel a bit sore.
So it might be difficult to indulge in your regular diet right away. Instead, try to stick to soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing, such as:
- Applesauce
- Pudding
- Gelatin
- Broth
- Soups
- Mashed vegetables
- Yogurt
These foods are a lot gentler on your gums, which is perfect for the first few days of wearing dentures.
When Can You Eat Harder Foods?
You can’t live on soups and mashed potatoes forever, so when can you start adding steaks back into your diet?
Well, it generally depends on how well your mouth adjusts to your dentures. Usually, people can start adding some harder foods into their diet after the first few days of wearing their dentures.
Remember, it’s a process. Start with slightly harder foods like:
- Soft bread
- Pasta
- Rice
- Soft meats (fish, chicken breast)
- Cooked vegetables
- Stews and soups with boiled vegetables and soft meats, etc.
As you continue to practice eating with dentures, you can slowly add harder foods to your diet. But remember to take it slow to avoid irritating your gums!
It also helps to cut up the food into small pieces to avoid the need for excessive chewing.
What Foods Will You Need to Avoid?
Some foods just aren’t denture friendly, so be mindful of that. While you don’t have to remove them from your diet completely, you might want to reduce their quantities or cut them up to make them easier for you to chew:
- Sticky foods that can dislodge your dentures (gum, caramels, etc.)
- Hard foods like nuts may place too much pressure on your gums
- Tough meats like ribs or pork chops should be tenderized and cut into small pieces
Interested in Dentures? We Can Help!
Dentures are a great way to restore your smile and your confidence. If you’re wondering whether they are right for you, Mission Valley dentists Dr. Bonifacio and Dr. Reyes at Rio Vista Family Dentistry can help you find out!
Book a dentures consultation at Rio Vista Family Dentistry online, and stop by for a visit to discover your best smile restoration options!
