After struggling with missing teeth, you may be excited to put your new dentures to use this summer. Now that the season is in full swing, it’s likely you have several events to look forward to in the coming months. It can be tempting to dig right into your favorite foods at all the cookouts, but you risk damaging your restored smile if you’re not careful. Before you indulge in any seasonal treats, review the following tips for eating with dentures.
Tips to Enjoy Summer Foods with Dentures
While you may be ready to beam with confidence at all the backyard BBQs, you will still need to take it easy when it comes to eating. Here are a few tips to keep in mind with new dentures:
Stick to Soft Foods
Your gums may be sore for the first few days or weeks after getting dentures. During this adjustment period, it’s a good idea to stick to liquid or soft foods, such as applesauce, pudding, oatmeal, eggs, or soup. They will help you avoid discomfort while you’re getting used to your new smile.
Be Wary Around Hot Foods
Make sure your food is completely cool before eating! Your dentures can have an insulating effect on your mouth, meaning you may not realize something is too hot until it has already burned your mouth. Next time you want to dive into some hot veggies fresh off the grill, sample a small amount to gauge its temperature before it’s too late.
Cut Your Food into Small Pieces
Chewing too much food at once can put unnecessary strain on your jaw, gums, and dentures. Keep your mouth safe by cutting up your food into bite-sized pieces before eating. Some raw fruits and vegetables require significant chewing effort, so it’s best to cook them first to make them softer and easier to consume.
Choose Your Meat Carefully
For some people, enjoying meat fresh off the grill is one of the highlights of summer. However, you want to avoid certain meats if you have dentures. Steaks and ribs may be delicious, but they take significant effort to chew. Instead, opt for slow-cooked and ground meats while you get used to your new prosthetics. They’re softer and much easier to enjoy!
Drink Plenty of Water
Starchy foods like chips, bread, and cookies are staples at most summer cookouts. It’s okay to enjoy these snacks in moderation, but make sure you drink plenty of water to prevent food particles from clinging to your new teeth. Otherwise, they could get stuck in your dentures.
Still Struggling? Consider Dental Implants
Are you still struggling to eat summer foods even after following these tips? It may be time to consider dental implants. They are the most permanent form of tooth replacement and can restore up to 75% of your original chewing capacity. Since implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, you don’t have to worry about them slipping and sliding while eating. Plus, they’ll give you a natural-looking smile that can last decades with proper dental care!
As you can see, you don’t have to miss out on your favorite seasonal foods just because you have dentures. Using the highlighted tips will help you enjoy the next summer cookout just as much as everyone else!
About the Author
Dr. Vrajesh Shah strives to help every patient achieve and maintain a strong, healthy, and complete smile. He continually invests in the latest, proven dental technology to provide the best care possible. Dr. Shah completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the prestigious New York University College of Dentistry. For more information on dentures or dental implants, schedule an appointment with him via our website or call (732) 906-0077.