Getting dentures means you can eat your favorite foods again. For patients who have gone weeks and months without being able to eat normally, this is a huge step. It’s going to take time, however, before you’re able to sink your false teeth into a juicy steak or eat complicated foods like corn on the cob. It will be necessary to learn some new habits in order to enjoy a full range of foods again.
Give Your Brain Time to Adjust to Dentures
You may discover, to your dismay, that food doesn’t have the same rich flavors that you remember, at least at first. Food may taste dull. Give it time. Your brain is adjusting to a slew of new signals from the nerves in your mouth and gums. Your mouth and brain are out of sync as your nervous system adjusts to the sensations and signals needed for you to use your new dentures. Once the brain adjusts to the new signals, your taste buds should get back to normal quickly.
Hot Stuff
Since your mouth is still adjusting, and depending upon the placement of plates holding the teeth, you may have a difficult time sensing temperatures. You’ll need to exercise caution when eating foods until you adjust to the sensations and learn to discern temperature. Stay away from very-hot foods to avoid the possibility of burning your mouth.
Start Small
When you begin learning to eat with dentures, start with softer food. Eggs, fish, chopped meats, cooked vegetables, pastas, soft fruits, and puddings are good examples. As you get used to the feeling of your dentures, try harder foods. Cut tougher foods, like bagels and tougher meats, into small chunks. Be sure to chew on both sides of your mouth, in order to equalize the pressure on your dentures. Denture adhesives may help improve the seal that keeps your dentures in place, and prevent seeds and other small kernels of food from getting underneath. Brush and clean them diligently when you’re not wearing them, to keep your mouth fresh and to avoid irritation.