Dentures are a tried-and-true option for replacing missing teeth. It’s hard to find fault with an oral appliance that has been used effectively for thousands of years! But that’s not to say they’re without limitations. Maybe you’ve already started to notice one such limitation – have you felt especially tired lately? Or perhaps like you’re having more brain-fog than usual?
According to researchers, the problem could be your dentures. Those with this particular restoration are far more likely to develop signs of malnutrition. For more details, keep reading.
The Denture Diet
This might be the first thing you thought of when it comes to dentures and malnutrition. Dentures are reliable, but they’re not indestructible. Certain foods, like crunchy vegetables and tough meats, are difficult or even impossible to eat without damaging your appliance. Not being able to eat balanced meals very easily would definitely increase your likelihood of missing out on essential vitamins and minerals!
Restricted Chewing Power
Here’s a lesser-known fact for you: your ability to chew directly affects your stomach’s ability to absorb your food’s nutrients. Thorough, effective chewing helps mix food particles with saliva, which contains special enzymes that help with the digestive process.
Unfortunately, dentures have a rather limited chewing capacity. They may slip out of place while you’re enjoying a meal, throwing off your bite, and also only retain about 30% of your original crushing strength. Basically, it’s very possible that you’re not chewing as well as you need to in order to benefit from a healthy diet!
How to Make Sure You’re Getting the Sustenance You Need
If you like your dentures, it’s important to meal plan strategically and creatively. Go outside the box for recipes that contain the proteins and vitamins you’re likely missing with a soft, carb-heavy diet. It’s also a good idea to partner with your doctor, since they’ll be able to tell you what nutrients you’re deficient in and can prescribe you supplements to help make up the difference.
If, on the other hand, you’re ready for a change, consider asking your dentist about dental implants. Dental implants retain much more power than dentures and are anchored directly to your jawbone, so they don’t move or slip. This makes chewing effectively and eating all your favorite healthy foods as easy as it is with natural teeth! Dental implants can also be combined with dentures for a more cost-effective solution.
Once your nutrition improves, you should start feeling more energized and focused. It might take careful planning or prudent consideration, but it’s well worth it for a healthier, happier you!
About the Practice
Our team at Michelsen Dental is dedicated to helping patients improve their oral health and feel better about their smiles. We understand that wearing dentures can make it difficult to enjoy a balanced diet and would be happy to work with you to find solutions that fit your preferences – whether that means tips about eating food with dentures or scheduling a consultation for dental implants! To contact our office, call 714-492-1169.
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