Digging into the Link Between Dentures and Nutrition

According to the American College of Prosthodontics, roughly 40 million adults are missing all their teeth. Luckily, dentures are a wonderful solution, both functionally and aesthetically. But while you may gain a beaming smile and the ability to enjoy your favorite meal, did you know that your dentures can have a negative influence on your nutrition? Learn more from your dentist in Daytona Beach about how your dentures can affect your nutrition and what you can do about it.

How Do Dentures Affect Nutrition?

While dentures are realistic-looking alternatives to natural teeth, they are noticeably different in several key ways. Instead of being anchored into your mouth with roots like homegrown pearly whites, they’re held in place by suction, adhesive, and muscle control. This changes your chewing strength and reduces your bite force. This often causes patients with dentures to swallow larger pieces of food, which are harder to digest for their full nutritional value.

They also can influence how quickly you swallow. Dentures tend to make you rush the chewing process because of how they fit, which limits the breakdown of your food from saliva. Studies show short chewing periods and swallowing larger food chunks reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.

Dentures can also change diet because they hinder taste. If you’re not experiencing the full taste of your food, you’re less likely to eat it. Naturally, you’ll begin to eat fewer veggies, fruits, and meats and absorb less of their vitamins.

Implant Dentures to the Rescue!

So, what can you do? Attaching your denture to dental implants, like All-On-4 dentures,  is a wonderful option. You can still have a restored smile but with permanently placed dentures.

All-On-4 dentures are custom-made prosthetics that are supported by four dental implants on the top or bottom of the mouth. They are placed at certain angles throughout the jawbone so the new denture can be supported and function like your natural teeth. This unique placement allows them to overcome practically all the drawbacks of a traditional denture that hinder your nutrition. Plus, All-On-4 dentures offer a wealth of other important benefits, including:

• Do not have to be taken out and cleaned separately from the rest of the mouth.
• No longer need to use messy adhesives, which can affect your taste sensation
• Prevents any jawbone deterioration
• Supports your facial features and revitalizes your appearance
• Typically completed in one dental appointment

Dentures have come to the rescue for many who have needed a restored smile, but they can get in the way of adequate nutrition. Fortunately, you can stay healthy and enjoy a truly natural smile with denture alternatives like All-On-4! Visit your dentist to explore your options and keep your smile—and health—in top condition.

About the Author

Dr. David Lloyd and his team at Indigo Dental serve Daytona Beach and surrounding communities. He graduated from the prestigious Emory University School of Dentistry and practices preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. With an emphasis on advanced technology, he can meet all your prosthetic needs, including implant dentures. To make an appointment, visit his website or call (386) 767-4907.