How to Help Your Mouth Adjust to Eating with Dentures
Posted on 5/1/2025 by Alexandra Garcia DDS MS
Getting new dentures is an exciting step in your journey to a restored smile and improved oral health. However, adjusting to eating with dentures can take some time and practice. Don't worry, it's completely normal to experience some challenges at first. With patience and the right approach, you'll be enjoying your favorite foods with confidence in no time.
Understanding the Adjustment Period
Your mouth needs time to adapt to the new dentures. The tissues beneath them need to adjust to the pressure and learn to form a proper seal. This may cause some initial discomfort, soreness, or even minor irritation. Additionally, chewing with dentures requires different techniques compared to natural teeth.
Tips for Eating with Dentures
Here are some helpful tips to make your transition to eating with dentures smoother:
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Start with soft foods: Begin by eating soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and cooked vegetables. This will allow your mouth to gradually adjust to the dentures and the new chewing pressure. As you become more comfortable, you can slowly introduce harder foods.
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Cut food into smaller pieces: This will make it easier to chew and prevent food from getting stuck under your dentures.
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Chew slowly and carefully: Take your time and chew each bite thoroughly using both sides of your mouth. This will help you avoid biting too hard or unevenly, which could dislodge your dentures.
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Avoid sticky and hard foods: Sticky foods like caramel and toffee can get stuck under your dentures, making them difficult to remove and potentially causing irritation. Hard foods like nuts and raw vegetables can be difficult to chew and may damage your dentures.
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Use a denture adhesive: Denture adhesives can help to improve the fit and stability of your dentures, making it easier to eat and talk. However, it's important to use them as directed and to consult your dentist if you have any concerns.
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Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your dentures regularly and rinse your mouth after meals to remove food particles. This will help to prevent irritation, infection, and bad breath.
Restorative Dentistry and Your Dentures
Remember, dentures are an important part of restorative dentistry, aiming to restore the function and appearance of your smile. Your dentist will work closely with you to ensure your dentures fit properly and are comfortable. They will also provide you with instructions on how to care for your dentures and adjust your diet as needed.
Patience is Key
Adjusting to eating with dentures takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you experience some initial challenges. With patience and the right approach, you'll be enjoying your favorite foods with confidence and comfort in no time.
Dental Blog | Prosthodontist Houston, TX | Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS Dr. Alexandra Garcia is offering this blog as a resource to the community. Click here to learn more about procedures, home care, and a variety of other dental topics! Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS, 777 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 625, Houston, TX 77056 / (346) 250-2930 / dralexandragarcia.com / 5/14/2025 / Page Phrases: dental implants Houston TX /
Getting new dentures is an exciting step in your journey to a restored smile and improved oral health. However, adjusting to eating with dentures can take some time and practice. Don't worry, it's completely normal to experience some challenges at first. With patience and the right approach, you'll be enjoying your favorite foods with confidence in no time.