Types of Foods You Shouldn’t Eat with Dentures

Dentures are a fantastic way to restore your smile, your confidence, and your ability to eat—but they aren’t a perfect replacement for natural teeth. Traditional dentures don’t have the same chewing power or stability, which means some foods can be uncomfortable or even damaging to eat.

To get the most out of your dentures and avoid unnecessary wear or irritation, it’s important to know which foods are best avoided. Here are some of the top culprits to watch out for.

Sticky or Chewy Foods

Caramel, chewing gum, gummy candies, and other sticky foods can be a big problem for denture wearers. These items may cling to your dentures or dislodge them from their proper position. Sticky foods can also pull at the denture adhesive and make your prosthetic feel loose.

If you’re craving something sweet, go for soft fruits, puddings, or yogurt instead.

Hard or Crunchy Snacks

Nuts, hard candies, popcorn, and raw vegetables like carrots or celery can put a lot of pressure on dentures and may even cause them to crack. Biting down on something too hard can also shift the fit of your dentures or create sore spots on your gums.

Try steaming vegetables to soften them or choosing sliced alternatives like applesauce instead of raw apples.

Tough Meats

Steak, jerky, and other chewy meats can be tough to break down with dentures. Not only do they require a strong bite, but they can also lead to jaw fatigue or make your dentures slip while chewing.

Opt for tender cuts of meat, ground meats, or slow-cooked options like stews and shredded chicken to make eating easier and more enjoyable.

Foods with Small Seeds or Kernels

Foods like sesame buns, strawberries, or seeded bread may seem harmless, but the tiny particles can get stuck under your dentures. This can lead to gum irritation, discomfort, and even infection if not cleaned properly.

Look for seedless or smooth-textured alternatives and be mindful when eating anything that could sneak underneath your prosthetic.

Crusty or Tough Breads

Bagels, baguettes, and thick pizza crusts can be difficult to bite and chew, especially with full dentures. These dense foods require significant pressure, which can be hard to manage without natural teeth to anchor the bite.

Soft sandwich breads, tortillas, or lightly toasted items are typically easier to manage and less likely to cause discomfort.

Want More Freedom with Food?

If you find yourself missing your favorite crunchy, chewy, or tough-to-eat meals, implant dentures might be a better fit for your lifestyle. Because they’re anchored directly to the jawbone, implant-supported dentures offer greater stability and chewing power—allowing you to enjoy a wider range of foods without worry.

About the Practice

Village Dental offers compassionate, comprehensive dental care in Reno, NV, with a focus on restorative treatments like traditional and implant dentures. Dr. Cercek and Dr. Rodriguez take the time to personalize every treatment plan, helping patients of all ages regain comfort, function, and confidence in their smiles. Whether you need your first set of dentures or are exploring more advanced options, our team is here to support your journey.

Call us at (775) 827-1113 or schedule your appointment online.