How to keep food from getting under your dentures?

Dentures are a common replacement for missing teeth. Partial or full dentures are a cost-effective tooth replacement treatment option that helps restore great smiles. When they are well-fit, they restore the aesthetics and functionality of your mouth and teeth. However, one of the downfalls is that food sometimes gets stuck under them. There are some strategies that can help you avoid this discomfort.

How Does Food Get Stuck Under Dentures?

When you eat, some food naturally falls to the bottom of your mouth. When this occurs, food particles can find their way underneath the bottom of your dentures. Sometimes, it’s the result of the tongue pushing food under your top dentures. Some foods tend to stick to them more than to your natural teeth. For denture wearers, it can be difficult for some people to learn how to eat with their new teeth. In some cases, it’s about changing your eating habits. Some examples include:

• Larger pieces of food tend to stick to dentures, especially if you are not used to chewing food into smaller pieces.
• Taking a new bite before clearing out all of a previous bite can increase the chances of food sticking to your dentures.
• Keeping liquid in your mouth for a long time before swallowing it can loosen your denture’s sealant which allows food to work up under them.

How to Keep Food from Getting Up Under Your Dentures

It can be uncomfortable getting food stuck under dentures. Dr. Dernick offers these tips to help prevent it from occurring.

• To prepare your dentures before starting to eat, close your mouth with teeth together, then swallow. This helps create a better seal between the dentures and your gums making it less likely for food to get between.
• Eat smaller bites and chew them very thoroughly before swallowing them.
• Try to avoid sticky foods that tend to stick to your dentures. Raw vegetables and doughs can be particularly problematic. If you are eating doughy foods or uncooked vegetables, drink plenty of liquid between bites to help wash the foods out.
• Ask Dr. Dernick to recommend a good denture adhesive.
• Talk to him about problems you may be having with foods getting stuck and how you can avoid the problem.

Foods Denture-Wearers Should Avoid 

There are a few foods that are problematic for denture-wearers. You may have already found a few foods that don’t agree well with them. Generally, you can eat foods you enjoy with full or partial dentures. But a few foods like these may need alternatives:

Nuts: When you chew nuts, little pieces can work their way up under dentures.

Peanut Butter: Nut butter tends to be sticky and is difficult to remove.

Raw Fruits and Vegetables: Eating firm raw veggies like apples and carrots can put too much pressure on your prosthetic teeth and cause them to become loose.

Popcorn: Popcorn can present problems for denture wearers. Kernels can get lodged between teeth and be difficult to remove. Bits of popcorn can work up under them causing irritation and discomfort.

Seeded Bread and Crackers: Seeds on crackers or in bread can become lodged between dentures and your gums.

Sticky Candies:  Hard and sticky candy can be difficult for denture wearers. Sticky foods dislodge dentures while chewing.

Contact The Woodlands Dentist

At The Woodlands Dentist, we understand getting dentures can present some difficulties. Dr. Dernick is available to answer your questions about how they may bring about changes in your lifestyle. Whether you need new ones or are a new denture user, we are here to help you adapt to changes. Contact us today to discuss your issues or to schedule an appointment.