Dentures offer patients a new lease on life, especially when it comes to eating a variety of foods. The improved stability and bite force of these prosthetics make mealtime more enjoyable, even around the holidays. But are all food items equal? Should you be careful not to eat certain things because of the potential danger they can cause to your smile? Keep reading to discover which foods to avoid if you want to avoid a trip to the emergency dentist’s office.
6 Foods You Should Avoid While Wearing Dentures
No matter if you are wearing a full or partial denture, you need to be mindful of what and how you eat certain foods. Although it might seem as if you can bite down on virtually anything because of your new and improved smile, the reality is that your teeth are not permanent and can become damaged if you’re not careful.
Avoiding a trip to see your emergency dentist is possible if you avoid the following foods:
- Corn on the cob
- Raw vegetables and hard fruits
- Cranberry sauce and other similarly sticky substances
- Chewy, tough meats
- Hard nuts
- Marshmallows, caramel, and similarly sticky foods
Which Denture-Friendly Foods Can You Enjoy?
Instead of feeling as if you are missing out on the food items listed above, remember that you can indulge in the following items. Doing so will not only keep you satisfied but also ensure your dentures remain fully intact throughout the holidays:
- Mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Tender meats like turkey or ham
- Cooked vegetables
- Flaky fish like salmon
- Pasta or rice
It’s always important to remember to cut up any larger pieces of food into small bits so that you can chew them easily. If you are still struggling to eat with your dentures, start with softer foods and slowly move on to denser options. By chewing with both sides of your mouth, you evenly distribute your bite force so that your dentures don’t pop out of place.
Keeping in mind which foods to avoid and which ones to eat this holiday season will allow you to enjoy what is on your plate instead of rushing off to the emergency dentist’s office.
About the Practice
United Dental Centers of Chicago is a family-owned and locally operated dental practice that consists of multiple dentists and staff who prioritize patients’ needs. Delivering top-tier care, we help individuals who are living with dentures enjoy a better quality of life. When the holidays arrive, our team can recommend ways to avoid dental emergencies and unexpected problems, especially those caused by the foods that are consumed. If you want to make sure your artificial teeth stay intact this holiday season, visit our website or call (773) 646-6262 to make an appointment with one of our dentists.