During November and December, most people engage in a variety of seasonal festivities and celebrations. Very often, these occasions involve lots of tasty food! If you have dentures, though, you might wonder how your prosthetic will affect your ability to indulge in flavorful treats. In this blog post, you will learn about some foods that you should avoid in order to safeguard both your prosthetic and your oral health.
Crunchy and Hard Foods
During seasonal festivities, you may be tempted by snacks like nuts, popcorn, or hard candies. However, these crunchy and hard foods can place excess pressure on your dentures. They may cause your prosthetic to shift, become damaged, or irritate your gums. It is wise to avoid foods that require a lot of force to bite into, since your dentures are not designed to handle such stress.
Carbonated Drinks
Festive gatherings often feature a variety of carbonated beverages, such as sodas and sparkling waters. These drinks can create bubbles that get trapped beneath your dentures, leading to discomfort or even sore spots. Additionally, the acids and sugars in carbonated drinks can contribute to oral tissue irritation and make it more difficult to maintain a clean mouth.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a classic treat, but it is typically very high in sugar. If you wear dentures, consuming sugary drinks like eggnog can increase your risk of developing oral infections or fungal growth under your prosthetic. The sugar can also contribute to plaque buildup on any remaining natural teeth. Plus, some eggnog recipes contain alcohol, which can contribute to a dry mouth and oral irritation.
Tough Meats
Tough meats, such as steak or jerky, require significant chewing effort. These foods can be particularly challenging for denture wearers. Attempting to bite and chew tough meats may cause your dentures to become unstable or even lead to sore spots in your gums. It is best to opt for tender, easy-to-chew proteins instead.
Sticky Foods
Holiday favorites like caramels, toffees, and certain desserts can be extremely sticky. Sticky foods are notorious for dislodging dentures or getting stuck to them, making them difficult to clean. You should avoid these foods to prevent discomfort and keep your dentures in good condition.
What to Eat Instead
While the above-listed foods should be avoided (or at least limited), there are still lots of delicious delights that you can enjoy as you engage in seasonal festivities with your family. For example:
- Soft cheeses and yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich option
- Soups and stews with well-cooked vegetables and tender meats
- Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, or pureed vegetables
- Soft, ripe fruits like bananas or baked apples
- Egg-based dishes such as scrambled eggs or quiches
Certain foods can damage your dentures, so exercise caution as you enjoy special occasions this fall and winter. Your wise choices will protect your prosthetic and your oral health!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page is a highly skilled dentist with more than 15 years of experience behind her. She and our team are proud to provide dentures and denture maintenance services. If you have questions about how to take good care of your prosthetic, we would be happy to offer advice that is tailored to your unique situation. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact Capital Smiles in Schenectady at 518-800-3102.