Eating With Partial Or Complete Dentures

Although most people getting a complete or partial set of dentures will speak highly of them, it’s common to have some concerns, especially around eating, before the big day at the denture clinic. Here are some details of what to expect when eating with your new dentures:

Practice makes perfect. Things may feel a little bit ‘off’ at first, but that’s ok! Although a welcome accessory, getting a new set of dentures will take some getting used to. Give yourself plenty of time at home to practice speaking and smiling with them before adding the pressure of a social or family event. Take the time to have some small meals and work your way up to foods that take more coordination and chewing. Stay positive and you will get the hang of eating with your beautiful new teeth in no time at all.

Don’t miss those appointments. Your denturist will want you to come in for follow up appointments to check the fit and make adjustments to your new dentures as needed. This is an important part of the process to ensure they are comfortable, and to avoid rubbing and sore spots as you get used to wearing them. If your dentures are slipping, causing friction, or making your gums sore while eating, be sure to go to your denture clinic right away. Dentures should not be painful, so if you are experiencing discomfort a simple adjustment can have them feeling good again in no time at all.

Start small. Cutting your food into small pieces and choosing foods that are not overly tough and chewy will ensure that you have time to become accustomed to eating with your dentures in. Some great options for nutritious foods that are easy to eat with new dentures are:

• Oatmeal, porridge, or cream of wheat. Add some mashed banana, cinnamon and maple syrup for flavour and extra nutritional value.
• Smoothies are a classic soft food go-to item that will provide you a variety of flavour options while you adjust to your new full, or partial dentures. The great thing about smoothies is you can blend in lots of nutritious fruits and vegetables that would otherwise be difficult to chew while learning to eat with them in.
• Soups are another excellent option that offers up a lot of variety. Make homemade bone broth soups with small soft chopped vegetables and wild rice, or pureed ones like roasted butternut squash.
• Mashed potatoes and other vegetables that are steamed/cooked to a soft consistency will keep you feeling full and your belly content. Add in a variety of seasonings, butter, and/or fresh herbs to excite your palate.
• Yogurt is a simple and delicious food that is a popular option for new denture wearers.
• When you’re ready to try something new, small bite sized noodles such as bowtie or macaroni will be a great way to try chewing with your dentures in.

Your Calgary Denture Speacalists

During your first weeks stick to this list above to gain confidence and become more comfortable while eating with dentures on. As your confidence grows you will find you can start incorporating many of the foods that you used to enjoy prior to getting partial or full denture implants. Many people choose to avoid foods that are overly sticky or tough, so over time you will find what does and does not work for you.

Future Smiles Denture Clinic is Calgary’s top choice for full or partial dentures. With locations in Coral Springs in the NE and close to Chinook Centre on Macleod in the SW, you can feel good knowing that you have a ‘denturist near me’ as you become used to eating with your dentures. If you are ready to explore the idea of dentures, reach out to their friendly team by calling 403-475-0016 or filling out the website form.

FAQs

Q: Can you eat normally with full dentures?
A: Because you are learning to eat with a new set of teeth, we are inclined to say that no, you will not eat exactly the same way you did before. The good news is that a properly made and fit complete set of dentures will allow you to enjoy most of the same foods that you did prior to getting them. It will take some getting used to, but practice makes perfect.

Q: Can you chew food the same with a partial set of dentures?
A: Where the denture implant is in your mouth may determine exactly what eating and chewing will be like with dentures. Some people find that it is easier to cut foods that require a big biting motion such as an apple or cheese burger. Other patients find that it’s easier to chew using the sides of the mouth, and no longer using their front teeth. Everyone will have a different experience, so ask your denturist what they recommend based on what teeth are being replaced for you.

Q: How long does it take to learn to eat with dentures?
A: Although this can be affected by whether you get a full or partial set of dentures, you can expect to become used to eating with dentures in 2-4 weeks. The best thing about eating is it happens daily so you will get lots of practice and will be eating comfortably again in no time.