Implant-supported dentures near you are the best option for replacing your non-functioning teeth. They are different from ordinary dentures because they are attached to an implant in your bone, therefore being secured and held properly.
This means you will have a much greater range of foods you can eat without fear of slippage or discomfort. Now, let’s quickly learn about what you can eat with implant-supported dentures.
1. Soft and Chewy Foods
Immediately following your implant-supported dentures, it is recommended to start consuming soft foods. This can help you get familiar with the denture without putting much pressure on it. Some common soft food items that are easily digestible include:
- Mashed potatoes: A creamy and smooth textured food, mashed potatoes do not irritate your gums.
- Yogurt: Yogurt is a healthy food item that is available in various flavours and does not need to be chewed.
- Eggs: Soft and tender scrambled eggs are fine for breakfast.
- Applesauce: It is sweet, smooth, and good for a snack.
- Oats: Warm and soothing, oatmeal is easy to eat and very nutritious.
2. Moving to Firmer Foods
You can try some firmer choices when you are comfortable eating soft foods. You should take care and have small bites while chewing slowly. Here are some examples:
- Green vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and zucchini are easy to chew.
- Cooked chicken: Soft, cooked chicken is a good source of protein. Make sure it is tender and not hard to chew.
- Fish: Baked or grilled fish like salmon or tilapia is tender and easy to eat.
- Rice and pasta: These are soft and can be easily paired with a variety of sauces and toppings for a meal.
- Cheese: Soft cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar are great for snacking.
3. Crunchy and Chewy Foods
A couple of weeks post-surgery, you can resume eating foods that have a crunchier or chewier consistency. While implant-supported dentures are resilient enough to handle this type of food, please be cautious while applying force. Some examples of these foods are:
- Chopped vegetables: Raw vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers can be eaten in small pieces.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, peanuts, and sunflower seeds are all healthy to munch on. Just chew them slowly.
- Fresh fruits: Apples, pears, and grapes—all taste good. Cut them up into small pieces to make them easier to chew.
- Bread: It is possible to have whole grain or crusty bread in small pieces. Add butter or spread to soften the bread a bit.
- Meats: Steak, pork chops, and other meats can be eaten, but they should be well-cooked and then cut into small pieces.
4. Avoiding Some Foods
Although implant-supported dentures are durable, to ensure their quality, you still have to avoid some kinds of food. The list of foods that you should beware of includes:
- Hard candy: Sucking hard candy is absolutely fine, but biting down on it may harm your dentures.
- Sticky foods: Gum, caramel, and taffy can all stick to your dentures and prove difficult to clean.
- Popcorn: Kernels can get stuck in your dentures and prove very hard to get rid of.
- Ice: Chewing on ice could cause cracks or damage to your dentures.
- Tough meat: Very tough or chewy meat can prove troublesome and hard to bite and chew.
Tips for Eating with Implant-supported Dentures
Here are some tips that make eating with your new dentures easier:
- Cut your food into small bits: It becomes easier to chew. Also, it would not put undue pressure on your dentures.
- Chew evenly: Try chewing on both sides of the mouth. This would balance your dentures in your mouth.
- Keep yourself hydrated: Drinking lots of water helps clean your mouth and prevents dry mouth.
- Use denture-friendly tools: Special denture brushes and cleaners will keep the dentures in good condition.
- Keep visiting your dentist near you: This would help maintain a correct fit and ensure that the dentures remain healthy.
Jensen Lakes Dental Offers Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures can change your life by giving you the ability to consume the majority of foods. Starting with soft foods and gradually going to hard ones enables you to get accustomed to your new dentures. Make sure to avoid foods that are too hard or sticky to save your dentures.
Just follow these tips, and you can enjoy your favourite meals without a single care. If any of the questions or concerns about implant-supported dentures concern you, never hesitate to discuss them with our dentist in St. Albert. Our dental staff at Jensen Lakes Dental will advise and treat you with patience to maintain your healthy and happy smile.