As I don’t have dentures, I cannot go too much into depth of what it’s like eating with dentures. But what I will do, is go through some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the topic – eating with dentures.

 

FAQs to eating with dentures – the answers

 

1. What’s it going to be like when eating with dentures?

 

As they are a different shape, material, and texture to natural teeth, eating and drinking with dentures is a very different experience; the same applies to each new pair of dentures.

 

When your dentures are first made it will also take some getting used to, so take your time and try not to get frustrated as this is very normal for those with new dentures (or those who have had previous experience with dentures, but have a new pair).

 

As well as being cautious, sometimes you might bite the inside of your cheek, or bite your tongue, but this is something that will reduce over time when you have learnt the shape and movement of the dentures.

 

Remember that a little soreness is to be expected; so there’s no need to worry if this is what you’re experiencing.

 

2 & 3. “Will I ever be able to eat with dentures” and “How do you eat with dentures?”

 

Of course it will take some getting use to but, as long as you take the necessary precautions, you’ll be eating normally again in no time. But how? Just remember to…

 

Eat slowly and evenly – Evenly? What does that mean exactly?

 

Chewing on both sides is a good way of chewing evenly. But as well as that, certain foods require more pressure to chew than others; hard foods are the most broadest example. Like sticky and chewy foods, harder food is a big category that presents problems for those with dentures.

 

It can be overwhelming. Just take your time with these sorts of foods and proceed with caution. Possibly start with softer food to get through the initial stages of eating with dentures.

 

With time on your side there won’t be anything that you’re not able to do when it comes to eating with dentures.

 

Eat in smaller pieces. For pointers, bite sized food will give you the least amount of grief as it’s not only easier to chew, but less food for you to struggle with when eating with dentures.

 

4. “Why is eating with my dentures hard?”

 

There could be a few reasons as to why this is…

 

• It could be that your dentures just don’t fit properly. Contact your dentist as soon as possible to see what they can do to assist you.
• The most common reason could be that you’re taking too much on at once; meaning that solid/sticky/chewy foods just aren’t agreeing with you, for now…

Be reassured that these issues aren’t permanent. All you’ve got to do in the meantime is eat softer foods like fish, potatoes, soups (Be careful of hot food too!) and yogurt.

 

5,6 & 7. “How/when/why do I clean my dentures?”

 

Not wearing them regularly? If you’re someone that isn’t wearing dentures full time, keep them soaked in water…

 

5. (Why?) otherwise you’re at risk of deforming and/or drying out your dentures. Even with full time use there will still be times where you won’t be wearing your dentures, like when you’re asleep, put the dentures into warm water or a denture solution.

 

6. (When?) If you’re able, clean your denture after every meal. However it’s most important that you clean them every day. Like the average set of teeth, it’s better if you brush twice a day.

 

7. (How?) There’s a few ways to properly care for your dentures, but cleaning them as instructed will ensure longevity. Here’s a step-by-step, pictured guide on denture cleaning.

 

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8. “How can I get help on “eating with dentures”?

 

Smiles Centre is here to help! It’s difficult to understand how eating with a denture affects you when you don’t have a denture personally.

 

But we do have a Dental Technician here at the Smiles Centre who’s trained to understand the needs, and the use of getting to grips with a denture and eating with dentures.

 

Don’t be afraid to contact Smiles Centre.

 

We’d love to assist you with any issues you’re having, even if it’s a quick question, we’re always here for you.