Can you eat normally with dentures?
What can you eat with dentures?
While adjusting to dentures, it's ideal to start with soft and easy-to-chew foods.
Foods like yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal and mashed potatoes are gentle on the gums and don’t require much chewing. You can also try finely chopped or ground foods, such as meats, casseroles, pasta, and stews, which minimize pressure on the dentures while still being tasty! Try to avoid particularly hard, sticky, or chewy foods at first, as these can dislodge or damage dentures. Over time, it may become easier as you adjust to dentures to eat a broader range of foods that allows for a more balanced diet.
What are the different types of dentures?
Complete dentures
Complete dentures are full sets of removable dentures for individuals who have lost all their natural teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. They provide a complete replacement of teeth, restore functionality, and improve facial structure. They are made from acrylic with metal reinforcements.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are used when only some teeth are missing and include a gum-coloured base that clasps onto the remaining natural teeth. They preserve the alignment of existing teeth, prevent shifting, and can be more stable than full dentures if secured by the remaining teeth.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures are held in place by dental implants embedded in the jawbone, providing added stability. They have a more secure fit than removable dentures, preventing slipping, and have a natural feel. They also help prevent bone loss in the jaw and can either be ‘snap-on’ or fixed.
Flexible dentures
Flexible dentures are made from a material that adapts to the mouth’s shape, often used as an alternative to partial dentures. They are lightweight, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing due to the lack of metal clasps. They are also less likely to break and are made from thermoplastic materials, like nylon.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are temporary dentures placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing the gums to heal before the permanent dentures are made. They provide a temporary solution for aesthetics and function while the gums heal, eliminating the period without teeth.
Overdentures
Overdentures fit over any remaining natural teeth to provide additional support. They offer a more secure fit, and the natural teeth or implants help maintain the structure of the jawbone and prevent further bone loss. They can be made for either the upper or lower jaw, and are removable for cleaning.
What candy can you eat with dentures?
We know that everyone loves a tasty treat.
Regrettably, having dentures may limit the types of sweets and desserts you can eat, at least while you adjust. The best sorts of candy you can eat with dentures are:
Marshmallows
Soft chocolates
Cream-filled chocolates
Jellies or gummies
Soft mints
Chocolate covered treats
Supporting people with dentures at Helping Hands
Helping Hands can offer expert personal care which can help with dentures.
Our carers are expertly trained to provide personal care so you can continue living life as comfortably and dignified as possible. Our live-in care, visiting care and respite care can help form a personal daily routine which focuses on your hygiene and supports daily tasks like getting dressed and yes, denture care. We can be there to assist you in cleaning your dentures and keeping on top of all your dental appointments. This way, your transition to a life with dentures will be fully supported by Helping Hands.
Fully regulated by the CQC / CIW
Being regulated means:
Our carers are expertly trained and qualified in providing nursing care with a wealth of experience. We’re also regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW), so we’re always on top of our game.
Guaranteed high-quality care
Peace of mind
Independent inspections
Regular development
A safe service
Regular communication