Just like that, Thanksgiving is right around the corner! This year sure has been crazy, which probably means you’re looking forward to the holiday now more than ever. However, if you have dentures, you may be dreading the idea of eating a meal with all different types of foods, including turkey. The slipping of your smile is not only uncomfortable, but it can also be embarrassing while trying to eat with family. Thankfully, your dentist has included some tips for enjoying Thanksgiving with dentures.
Cut & Chew Thoroughly
Chewy chunks of meat and big pieces of green beans can be difficult to bite through and even get caught in your dentures. You shouldn’t have to miss out on all your favorites this Thanksgiving just because you have an artificial smile. Instead, be sure to cut up all your food into small bites—even if you think it’s unnecessary. Combined with chewing your food carefully and thoroughly, you’ll be able to enjoy a big feast and smile with confidence afterward.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Along with watching how you eat, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat. Raw fruits, steaks, corn on the cob, and other holiday favorites are hard and difficult to chew. These items can easily cause your denture to come out of place and irritate your smile. Or worse, biting down on a popcorn kernel could break your prosthesis. You should also watch out for sticky foods like caramel or cranberry sauce because they can easily latch on to your dentures. If you can, try avoiding these items altogether!
Don’t Forget About Your Dental Hygiene
During the holiday season, it can be easy to forget about some of your daily habits. However, it’s one of the worst times you could skip your regular dental hygiene! This time of the year often brings lots of sugary sweets that can infect your gums and eat away at any remaining teeth you may have. That’s why it’s vital that you always brush your gums and tongue twice a day to clean away plaque and bacteria. Make sure that you’re always removing your dentures and soaking them overnight to shake loose any lingering food debris. Last but certainly not least, schedule an appointment with your dentist to see that your dentures are still fitting and functioning properly.
Are you ready to take on Thanksgiving with a safe and secure smile? Just remember these tips to enjoy the festivities without needing an emergency dental visit!
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we have a team of 5 dentists who combine their knowledge and training to offer a wide range of treatment options including, full, partial, and implant-retained dentures. We are also here when you need us if you ever have an urgent denture issue. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, we can be contacted through our website or by phone at (847) 577-7171.