Holiday Feasts & Dentures: What to Avoid at the Dinner Table

As you get ready for upcoming holiday gatherings, you may be excited for the feasts that are likely to ensue. Now that you have dentures, you’ll be able to enjoy a wider range of foods more comfortably. However, there are some options on the table that you should still steer clear of. They can cause trouble for your restoration, so here are four that you might want to keep off your plate while you eat.

1.)  Tough Meats

When it comes to the entrée, there is likely a protein staple that your family loves. Whether it’s pork, poultry, or anything else, there are parts of them that are naturally tougher. While they may be your favorite, they aren’t the best for your dentures.

You’ll need to chew them for a bit, which can cause them to slip, or you might also increase your risk of damage if there are bones as well. Instead, to enjoy them more easily, slice them into bite-sized chunks or opt for more tender cuts.

2.)  Hard and Crunchy Snacks

You might want to snack on things nearby, like raw fruits and vegetables. While there are plenty of soft options, the crunchy ones like apples, celery, and carrots may be calling your name. Although they are good for your body, they aren’t for your dentures. They can cause damage, so blend them into smoothies or cut them into small pieces.

Popcorn and nuts are some other items people grab, but they can lead to chips and cracks. They can also get lodged underneath your dentures, leading to irritation. Instead, try out some hummus, berries, or seedless grapes as alternatives.

3.)  Chewy and Sticky Sweets

At the end of the meal, you may want something sweet to wrap up the dinner. However, chewy and sticky candies like marshmallows, caramel, and taffy aren’t very denture-friendly. They can easily get stuck, pulling your restoration out of place while you eat. Avoid them and reach for soft ones like dark chocolate and sugar-free gum.

4.)  Carbonated Drinks

To wash all the above food down, you may reach for your favorite soda or another carbonated beverage. Their sugar content is bad for your oral health, but did you know the carbon dioxide in them is as well? Your saliva turns it into an acid that can cause dental problems, the more you overindulge. Not only that, but the bubbly feeling can also be an unsettling sensation. It can make your dentures slip and move, so try to stick to water or herbal teas.

About the Practice

At Drew Beaty DDS, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Beaty and Dr. Brandon Walker. Our team is here to help the Federal Way community feel their best about their smiles through restorative treatments like dentures. By ensuring each one is made custom per patient with high-quality materials, you can trust yours to turn out natural-looking and comfortable. If you want to know how you can better care for your prosthetic, schedule an appointment or call our office at (253) 839-6544.