Dentures are a life-changing solution that can bring back your smile and confidence. Crafted for a snug yet comfortable fit, they mimic the look of natural teeth and make eating and speaking easy and more enjoyable. However, when it comes to the holidays, there are certain foods you may need to avoid or be more mindful of if you want your artificial teeth to remain damage-free. Keep reading to discover which treats you might want to reconsider this time of year.
Which Foods Can Be Problematic with Dentures?
Although it can be hard to pass up certain dishes, you’ll want to be mindful of how everything you eat might impact your dentures. Some foods you should consider avoiding (or be careful while consuming) include:
- Tough Meats – Dentures may return some of your bite force, but trying to bite down into a tough piece of meat, like roast beef or steak, can make chewing difficult. You can make this process easier by cutting up the pieces into bite-sized chunks.
- Nuts & Popcorn – Biting down on hard nuts or popcorn can cause a small crack or chip to form. Although it may only be minor, it can be problematic if you struggle to use your teeth correctly. This can result in a trip to the emergency dentist’s office and possible denture replacement or repair.
- Eggnog – Designated as a holiday drink, this creamy and iconic beverage may be tasty, but it contains a lot of alcohol and sugar. This means you’ll not only be at risk for cavities but also gum disease. Alcohol dries out your mouth, which can lead to bacterial accumulation.
- Sodas – Sugar may increase your risk for cavities, but carbonation heightens the chances of your dentures moving around while in your mouth, causing them to be less stable.
Which Holiday Foods Can Be Enjoyed Without Worry?
Instead of getting upset over being unable to enjoy the foods listed above, remember the following options are equally appetizing and will keep your dentures in the best possible shape:
- Mashed potatoes
- Tender meats, like chicken or turkey
- Green bean casserole
- Cooked vegetables (i.e., broccoli, carrots, Brussel sprouts, etc.)
- Warm stews or broths
- Fish
- Pasta
- Rice
- Cooked sweet potatoes
If you want to indulge in some of the less-than-ideal food options, be careful so that you spend more of your holiday with family, not your dentist.
About the Author
Dr. James P. Kostas brings 30+ years of dentistry experience to the office each day, delivering superior service and treatment to patients in Burlington and its surrounding communities. Working closely with patients suffering from tooth loss, he and his team at Complete Dental Care offer dentures as a safe, reliable, and affordable way to restore smiles and boost lasting confidence. If you are living with these prosthetics but need help to navigate the holidays, visit our website or call (781) 272-0441 to speak with a member of our team.
