Holiday Foods to Avoid with Dentures

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and delicious food. But if you wear dentures, you know some foods can pose a challenge. Certain dishes can be difficult to enjoy, from sticky sweets to tough meats, without risking discomfort or damage. Here’s a guide to foods to avoid with dentures during the holidays, along with some denture-friendly options to keep your holiday dining worry-free.

What Holiday Foods Sticks to Dentures?

Popular holiday foods that stick to dentures include treats like caramel, toffee, taffy, and gummy candies. Other sticky foods to watch out for include:

• Pecan pie and fruitcake: The gooey fillings in these festive deserts can stick to dentures and can require extra cleaning afterward.
• Marshmallows: Found in many holiday desserts, marshmallows can stick to both your dentures and gums, making them uncomfortable to eat.

Holiday Foods That May Damage Dentures

Beyond sticky foods, certain holiday favourites can put your dentures at risk for damage. Foods you can’t eat with dentures include hard and crunchy foods, such as:

• Nuts: While nuts are a healthy snack, they can be too hard for dentures. Avoid biting down on whole nuts, especially if they’re raw.
• Hard candies: Hard candies are sticky and tough to bite into, making them a double threat for denture wearers. If you indulge in hard candies, remember to suck on them slowly and allow them to dissolve fully.
• Crusty bread or baguettes: The thick, hard crusts of certain breads can strain your dentures and even lead to breakage if you’re not careful.
• Corn on the cob and ribs: These foods require you to bite directly into them, which can dislodge or damage your dentures.

Denture-Friendly Foods for the Holidays

Luckily, there are plenty of denture-friendly foods for the holiday that you can enjoy without worry, including:

• Soft-cooked vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables, like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes, are gentle on dentures and packed with nutrients.
• Mashed or pureed foods: Dishes like mashed potatoes, yams, and butternut squash soup are easy to eat and won’t place stress on your dentures.
• Tender meats: Opt for slow-cooked options like roast turkey or pot roast, which are soft and easy to chew.
• Cranberry sauce and stuffing: These holiday classics are soft and flavorful, allowing you to savor the holiday spirit without worrying about your dentures.

How to Prevent Food Getting Under Dentures

Food getting under dentures is common and causes discomfort. To minimize this issue, here are a few tips:

• Use a denture adhesive: A high-quality adhesive can help create a seal that prevents food from getting trapped.
• Rinse after meals: Swishing water around your mouth after eating can help dislodge any food particles.

Keep Your Dentures Looking Beautiful All Holiday Season

Your dentures can stay in great shape throughout the holidays by cleaning them daily and soaking them overnight in a specialized denture cleaner. At Ola Fresh, our denture cleansing solution will help your dentures and smile look beautiful throughout the holiday season. Order online today.