Getting dentures can be life-changing in many ways. They restore your smile, help you speak clearly, and give you back the confidence to laugh with loved ones. But can they affect your diet and, by extension, your physical health? Continue reading to discover the link between your prosthetics and your nutrition so you can build a better menu every day.
Chewing Challenges
One of the biggest adjustments you’ll need to make when you first get dentures is in how you chew. Dentures don’t have the same bite force as natural teeth, which can make certain foods more difficult to break down.
Tough meats, crunchy vegetables, and fresh fruits may feel uncomfortable to bite down on at first. Because of this, some denture-wearers might start avoiding certain foods, which can accidentally lead to gaps in nutrition over time.
Nutrients You May Miss
If your diet shifts away from chewy or fibrous foods, you might unknowingly cut out important vitamins and minerals. Here are a few that denture-wearers should watch out for:
Protein
If steak and chicken become hard to chew, you might miss out on this muscle-building nutrient. Try soft options like eggs, yogurt, or flaky fish.
Fiber
Crunchy fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber. Switch to cooked veggies, smoothies, or blended soups to keep your fiber intake high.
Iron and B12
These nutrients help keep your energy levels up. If red meat is tough, try fortified cereals, leafy greens, or soft legumes.
Calcium & Vitamin D
Essential for bone health, especially for maintaining a strong jawbone. If dairy is difficult to consume, try fortified plant-based milk, tofu, or leafy greens.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Supports brain function and reduces inflammation. If nuts and seeds are hard to chew, try adding soft fish like salmon to the menu.
Vitamin C
Helps with gum health and healing. If citrus fruits are tough, try blended smoothies or cooked bell peppers.
Eating Well with Dentures
By swapping out some foods for others, you don’t have to sacrifice nutrition to wear dentures. However, if you’re missing your favorite menu items, there are other ways to make eating easier, such as:
- Cutting food into smaller pieces
- Chewing slowly and evenly on both sides
- Drinking water while eating helps with dry mouth
- Keeping your dentures clean
- Making sure your prosthetics are well-adjusted by visiting your dentist
Wearing dentures doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love or skipping the nutrients your body needs. It might take a little patience and a few creative tweaks to your meals, but with the right mindset and a bit of creativity, you can still enjoy a healthy, balanced diet that supports your overall health.
About the Practice
At Island City Dental, Dr. Hasan Yap and Dr. Robert Smith understand that dentures aren’t just about appearances. They work together to help our patients choose and adjust their prosthetics to support a healthy lifestyle. If you want to enjoy a balanced diet and a better quality of life, our team can help. Call (954) 564-7121 to schedule a denture consultation with us or visit our website to explore a full menu of services.