Solutions for Common Denture Problems Austin, TX
Dentures are more comfortable and helpful than ever before. However, there are still some common problems that many denture wearers experience. Proper denture care and diet can help keep the gums and mouth healthy and avoid irritation or infections.
Dentures are available at Austin Lifetime Dental in Austin and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with solutions and tips to correct common denture problems. Call us at (512) 387-7937 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
How To Eat While Wearing Dentures
Dentures provide only a fraction of the biting and chewing power compared to healthy natural teeth. With that in mind, eating while wearing dentures takes some practice and adjusting. As the patient practices, it is critical to consider the following:
- Start with soft foods: We do not recommend eating hard or sticky foods when wearing dentures. When first getting dentures, it is good to start with soft foods, such as applesauce and pudding. After getting the hang of eating and swallowing with dentures, it is time to move on to soft foods that require a little chewing, like scrambled eggs.
- Chew on both sides: Taking small bites and chewing equal amounts on both sides of the mouth at the same time helps keep the dentures balanced.
- Check temperatures before eating or drinking: Dentures have an insulating effect on the mouth. Consequently, as explained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it may be difficult to judge food temperature. As such, patients should use their lips to check food and beverage temperature.
- Be patient: These issues should resolve as one gets used to all the sensations associated with a new set of dentures.
Furthermore, to prevent toothache, cavities, and stained teeth, patients should eat a balanced diet and treat their dentures with the same care they would afford their natural teeth.
“With that in mind, eating while wearing dentures takes some practice and adjusting.”
What to Look out for When Wearing Dentures
The most important thing to do is keep the mouth clean and healthy. If patients find that their dentures are rubbing and causing sore spots, they should immediately see us for assessment and relining of the dentures. All patients, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice a year.
If someone wearing dentures finds that the dentures' fit has changed significantly, they should make an appointment with our office to find the root cause of the changes. Shrinkage of the gums and jawbone is common when no longer supporting teeth; however, swelling and inflammation could be from an underlying health condition.
“Every patient, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice per year.”
How To Travel with Dentures
Traveling with dentures for the first time, especially overnight, can be nerve-racking. An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time. In addition to having practiced the proper denture-care routine at home, the patient should:
- Research the destination’s water quality. If local water is questionable, patients can soak dentures in bottled water for the trip duration. An article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends choosing bottled water that has been treated for Cryptosporidium when traveling.
- Choose an appropriate denture case. A tight-fitting case protects dentures from bumps along the way. This prevents cracks, which could harbor bacteria. Some travel cases for dentures include brushes and mirrors for convenience.
- Consider investing in a second set of dentures. Although not necessary for most people, a set of backup dentures may occasionally save the day. For example, if the denture-wearer is traveling for a meeting or speaking engagement, having a second set of dentures may provide peace of mind. The same goes for a patient on an extended trip.
“An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time.”
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Precautions With Food
When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites. Chew slowly and try to use both sides of the mouth so the jaw muscles can get a firm hold. Alternatively, some people decide to use denture adhesive for extra stability. We recommend avoiding hard, hot, tough, or sticky foods to minimize potential teeth damage.
Hot foods can cause problems initially because the lower temperature sensitivity increases the risk of accidental burns. Once patients get used to the difference, they can start introducing hot foods to their diet again. Avoid foods like hard vegetables, seeds, and nuts that can damage dentures and refrain from chewing gum, peanut butter, and other sticky foods that make it more difficult to clean dentures.
“When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What food should denture wearers eat?
Q. How is eating with dentures?
Q. What should people be wary of when wearing dentures?
Q. What is the best way to travel with dentures?
Q. Do dentures cause oropharyngeal cancer?
People Also Ask
Q. What is the proper way to take care of my dentures?
Q. Can I fix my dentures myself?
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Q. How should new denture wearers change their eating practices?
Q. What is a good overnight cleaning routine?
Q. What are the types of denture relining?
Checking for Oropharyngeal Cancer
While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer. As such, it is imperative for patients to take proper care of their teeth at all times.
Austin Lifetime Dental can check for oropharyngeal cancer during a routine examination. The screening will begin with Austin Lifetime Dental examining the oral tissues, carefully checking the gums, inside of the cheeks, and tongue. The roof and floor of the mouth will also be examined.
“While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it easy to chew when wearing dentures?
A. Dentures restore part of a person's chewing capacity compared with having no teeth. However, a denture-wearer will not have the biting force of a person with a complete set of healthy, natural teeth. Chewing with dentures can be mastered with practice.
Q. How can I learn to speak clearly while wearing dentures?
A. Learning to speak clearly with dentures requires practice. It may take a few weeks, but it does get easier. For example, reading aloud is an effective way to practice. Speaking more slowly may also help a patient learn to enunciate while wearing dentures.
Q. What can I eat with dentures?
A. Foods that are not sticky or hard are usually preferred for denture-wearers. It is a good idea to avoid foods with small seeds or hard bits. Foods that have been cut into small pieces are easiest for a person with dentures to eat.
Q. How do I keep my dentures clean?
A. To keep a pair of dentures clean, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day. It also helps to rinse them after eating. Soak them overnight in an appropriate solution to make sure they keep their shape.
Q. Where can I find more solutions for common denture problems?
A. The most reliable source of information about denture care and oral health is a dental professional such as Austin Lifetime Dental. If a patient experiences a problem with dentures, it may be an indication that it is time to visit the dentist. Always bring up any concerns and issues during an appointment.
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Denture Terminology
Call Us Today
Taking the right precautions and actions can combat common denture problems. Our team at Austin Lifetime Dental can help. Call us at 512-387-7937 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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