When most people think about replacing missing teeth, dentures are what come to mind first. This tried-and-true form of tooth replacement has helped countless patients over the years with all degrees of tooth loss. That said, for many patients, the immediate impact of having a full set of teeth can boost their quality of life in many ways, one of which involves their diet. But while dentures do allow for easier biting and chewing, do they ultimately impact nutrition? Here’s what you need to know.
Yes, Dentures Do Impact Your Diet
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and are held in place by a combination of muscle control, suction, and often adhesive material. This allows you to bite with your dentures as if they were your natural teeth, though this strength is still significantly reduced. As a result, many patients find themselves struggling to eat crunchy, chewy, or fibrous foods, so much to the point that they might even avoid them altogether.
Unfortunately, these foods are usually also very healthy options that are loaded with fiber, protein, and other key vitamins that all of us need, as they affect everything from digestion to energy levels, immunity, and even bone health.
Why Chewing Is the First Step of Digestion
Though it might surprise you, we technically start digesting our food as soon as we begin chewing it. Our saliva has special enzymes that begin breaking down food as our teeth grind it into smaller particles. When food isn’t broken down properly at this initial step, some of the nutrients won’t end up being absorbed by your body. For denture wearers who are already somewhat limited in their food choices, this can create a cycle where poor chewing leads to poor nutrition.
Thankfully, dental implants can often help address this situation directly. Dentures can be attached to titanium posts that are placed beneath the gums, directly into the jaw. They end up acting as replacement tooth roots, providing stability for the dentures and restoring most of a patient’s original biting force.
If you’ve noticed yourself avoiding certain foods, difficulty chewing on a certain side of your mouth, or just sense that your dentures feel off and eating is becoming more and more of a chore, don’t wait around for the issue to resolve on its own; it won’t! Your body needs proper nutrition to be at its best, and your teeth, whether they’re still your natural ones or you’ve restored them with dentures, are the key.
About the Practice
Our team here at Flagship Dental Group has served the needs of those in Longmeadow and the nearby areas for several years. We offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, including different types of dentures to help rebuild smiles of all shapes and sizes. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment at our office, you can reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (413) 567-1221.