Those who are missing teeth may be more at risk for nutrient deficiency and here’s why.
As we have said before, those who have missing teeth often become accustomed to ill-fitting dentures, worn-down dentures or no dentures at all. This may result in overcompensation of any existing natural teeth (for example: chewing on the natural anterior teeth because of a lack of posterior teeth) and food avoidance. Why is this important?
Digestion starts in the mouth. The mechanics of chewing and the enzymes in our saliva break down food so that it can be further digested in the stomach and intestines. If you are not able to chew properly, this can result in nutrient deficiency, food avoidance, and other health complications.
What are some signs and complications of Nutrient Deficiency?
• Hair loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Poor circulation
• Anemia or fatigue
• Lowered immune response
• Loss of muscle mass or strength and more!
What is Food Avoidance?
Simply put, avoiding foods once enjoyed because you cannot chew successfully. This may include hard, crunchy or chewy foods such as raw vegetables, meats, and even bread. Those who avoid certain foods may lack the essential nutrients our bodies need such as Iron, B vitamins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
As a result of food avoidance, those with missing teeth may turn to alternative solutions like protein shakes. While protein shakes may be helpful, it does not address the real issue. Replacing missing teeth or improving your dentures fit.
Avoid food avoidance by:
Replace Missing teeth
Replacing missing teeth is extremely important. Whether you have a partial, or complete denture, you need to have teeth for proper digestion!
Improve Denture Fit
If your denture is worn down, loose/ill-fitting, or in need of replacement, we can help! Dentures that are loose or ill-fitting not only make it difficult to eat but, they can cause a whole array of oral health issues such as sore spots and lack of stability, support, retention, and saliva. These are essential for chewing.
Ill-fitting dentures can cause decreased levels of saliva and difficulty chewing certain types of food. Seeing your denturist regularly will allow them to inspect your dentures and deal with any concerns as they arise.
Your denturist may suggest relining your denture for a tighter fit, cutter bars for extra chewing help, replacement dentures, or even dental implants to secure a lower denture and increase your biting force.
• We recommend a denture reline every 2-3 years and replacement every 5-7 depending on the wear and the changes to your mouth.
Food Preparation and Chewing Function
Eating a variety of foods that are rich in protein, fibre, carbohydrates, and healthy fats is very important for our bodies to do the things we need them to do. You can achieve a proper diet by cooking wisely. If you are not able to chew raw vegetables, consider steaming or mashing. Eat your meats, and poultry by cutting them into smaller pieces and chewing slowly & thoroughly. Preparing fruit/ veggie smoothies is also another way to get the nutrients we need.
Even seasoned denture wearers can have issues with eating from time to time. Remember these tips:
Bite on your back teeth- If you can, try to do the majority of your biting and chewing on the back teeth, evenly distributing food between both sides of your mouth. Avoid biting with the anterior teeth as this can cause suction of the upper plate to fail.
Start with softer foods such as fish, and cooked vegetables while avoiding sticky or chew foods. This will allow you to chew with both sides of your mouth to prevent your dentures from dislodging. This is especially recommended for those with new dentures.
Cut food up into smaller pieces- Since digestion begins in the mouth, you must eat smaller pieces of food. This will allow you to chew slowly and thoroughly.
If you are experiencing problems eating, please talk to your denturist here at St. Boniface Denture Clinic, your doctor, or your nutritionist. Together, we can prepare a plan to help you eat happily and successfully
To learn more about your oral health, or the different dental replacement options available from St. Boniface Denture Clinic (Formerly Koster Denture Clinic), book a free consultation at the link below, or call 204-589-3337.