Which Holiday Foods Should I Avoid with My Dentures?

The holiday season is full of opportunities to catch up with your loved ones and enjoy some great food along the way. Everyone has their favorite Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, as many of these items are seldom seen the rest of the year. If you wear dentures in East Islip, it might be easy to get distracted at dinnertime, but there are some food items you need to exercise caution for. After all, the last thing you want is to damage them and then have to leave your family to deal with a dental emergency. Read on for some helpful tips from your dentist about holiday items to be careful with while enjoying.

Popcorn

From the movie theater to the holiday season, popcorn isn’t the worst thing for your teeth. But you must watch out for always dangerous unpopped kernels. They can get lodged in your teeth or under your dentures, both of which can be very painful. Munching hard kernels can also damage your dentures by cracking or otherwise damaging them. Therefore, it’s best to opt for some airy crisps or cheese puffs instead.

Nuts 

Nuts are popular during the holidays and beyond because they taste good and are good for you. However, biting them can damage your dentures and cause pain as well. The sharp edges can also get stuck underneath your dentures, keeping them from fitting properly. If you want to keep your dentures and gums safe, you might consider eating softer foods like olives instead!

Meats That Are Tough to Chew

Steak that’s well done, pork chops, and beef jerky are examples of meats that require a lot of chewing. Unfortunately, this action puts unnecessary stress on your dentures and can dislodge them or create sore spots on your gums. With that in mind, it might be wise to skip the tough meats this holiday season.

Foods That Are Gummy or Sticky

Delicious holiday favorites like toffee, peanut brittle, and caramel can be difficult to chew if you wear dentures. Not only can they loosen the suction between your denture and gums, but food particles can easily get stuck underneath. Unless removed properly, those particles can cause bacteria buildup and result in sore, irritated gum tissue.

Fruits and Veggies That Are Crunchy

Fresh fruits and vegetables are very beneficial for your oral health and your health in general. However, biting into apples, carrots, or other crunchy fruits or veggies can damage your artificial teeth, causing them to shift or become loose. Before you enjoy any of these foods, make sure you slice or puree them so they’re easier to consume.

Embrace those holiday foods you can enjoy without putting your dentures at risk. Your oral health is important no matter the time of year. A healthy smile is worth a cuisine compromise from time to time.

About the Author

Dr. Gary Rosenfeld earned his dental doctorate from Columbia University. His favorite aspect of being a dentist is the ability to improve his patients’ lives. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you are interested in dentures, Dr. Rosenfeld offers partials, full dentures, or implant dentures. Schedule a consultation on his website or call (631) 581-8600.