Dentures are a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They restore your smile, help you speak more clearly, and support the facial muscles. But one important question many denture wearers ask is: Do dentures affect nutrition? The answer is yes, dentures can influence your eating habits and nutritional intake, especially if they don’t fit well or you’re still getting used to them. Here’s a closer look at how dentures can impact your nutrition and what you can do to ensure a healthy, balanced diet.
How Dentures Can Affect Eating
When you first get dentures, it’s normal to experience some challenges with eating. Chewing power is often reduced compared to natural teeth, and some foods may be more difficult to manage. Hard, crunchy, or sticky items can be tough to chew and may even dislodge the denture.
As a result, denture wearers sometimes avoid certain foods like raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, meats, and fruits with tough skins. Unfortunately, many of these foods are also nutrient-rich. Over time, consistently skipping them can lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially in fiber, protein, calcium, and key vitamins like B12 and C.
Signs Your Nutrition May Be Suffering
Some indicators that your dentures may be affecting your nutrition include:
- Unintended weight loss.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Avoiding entire food groups.
- Digestive issues from not chewing thoroughly.
- Fatigue, hair loss, or changes in skin quality.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s worth discussing them with your dentist and possibly a registered dietitian.
Tips to Improve Nutrition with Dentures
The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can eat well and stay healthy while wearing dentures.
Choose Softer Nutrient-Rich Foods
If raw vegetables are hard to chew, try steaming them until tender. Ground meats, stewed dishes, scrambled eggs, soft fruits like bananas or berries, and cooked grains are all gentle on dentures but still pack a nutritional punch.
Cut Foods into Small Pieces
Chopping or slicing your food into smaller, bite-sized pieces makes it easier to chew and reduces the risk of dislodging your dentures.
Stay Hydrated
A dry mouth can make eating with dentures more difficult. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to aid chewing and swallowing and help keep your mouth comfortable.
Consider Nutritional Supplements
If you’re struggling to meet your dietary needs, talk to your healthcare provider about supplements or high-protein meal replacement shakes until you can improve your chewing ability.
Make Sure Your Dentures Fit Properly
Poorly fitting dentures can cause sore spots, make chewing painful, and discourage proper eating. Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your dentures fit well and are adjusted as needed.
While dentures can present some dietary challenges, they don’t have to prevent you from eating a healthy, balanced diet. With the right care, smart food choices, and regular dental visits, you can maintain good nutrition and enjoy your meals with confidence.
About the Author
Dr. David C. Parsons has been practicing dentistry for more than 40 years. He is a graduate of the Baylor School of Dentistry and has undergone hundreds of hours of continuing education in topics like orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Parsons is a member of the American Dental Association and the Kansas Dental Association and is also on staff at the William Newton Memorial Hospital. Looking to restore your functionality and confidence with dentures? Dr. Parsons and our team can help! Schedule your appointment today online or call us at (620) 221-0730.