Do Dentures Affect Nutrition? Denture-wearers should pay close attention to their nutrition intake. Research found that denture patients have lower nutrition markers than before using dentures.  Dentures could impact nutrition more than patients may realize. Since dentures do not have the same chewing efficiency as natural teeth, many patients have to alter their regular eating habits when they start using dentures. Dentures are a valuable oral appliance that has allowed countless patients with tooth loss to regain oral function. Humans have been using denture-like appliances to counter tooth loss for decades. The earliest record of dentures dates back to the 7th century. These ancient oral appliances used animal or human teeth. Denture technology has made leaps and bounds in the last decade. Not only do modern dentures beautifully restore patients’ smiles, but they also create a stable chewing surface. Denture-Users Have Lower Nutrition Markers  Patients who have had their dentures for two years have significantly lower nutrition markers in certain areas than before using dentures, according to a recent study published by the Journal of Prosthodontics. Patients who recently started using dentures should monitor their nutrition levels to prevent malnutrition.  Poor-fitting dentures greatly contribute to lowering nutrition levels. It is much more difficult to chew food when the chewing surfaces are unstable. This instability often results in patients avoiding eating foods that are difficult to eat, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding these vital food groups causes patients to miss out on key nutrients. Denture-Friendly Nutrient-Rich Foods:  Eggs  Cottage cheese  Broiled fish  Meatloaf  Applesauce  Soft fruits (bananas, melons & berries)  Oatmeal  Potatoes  Pasta  Rice Tips to Eat with Dentures Successfully:  Sit down for meals:Rushing through meals often results in not chewing food thoroughly. It is a good idea to sit down and diligently chew to get the full nutritional benefits of a meal. Cut food into small pieces:The smaller pieces you cut your food into, the less power is needed by your jaws to break down the food. Have a beverage with meals:Cereal and whole grain bread are staples in the American diet, but they often stick to the teeth. Eating with liquids makes it easier to chew and swallow these foods. Chew on both sides of the mouth evenly:Humans naturally chew on their dominant side. Right-handed people generally chew on the right side of their mouth, and left-handed people chew on their left. Chewing evenly on both sides of the month takes conscious effort but is particularly beneficial for denture-wearers. Avoid tough meats:Red meat can be too tough for some individuals to eat with dentures. Poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes are softer and easier to chew. Although, you can still enjoy red meat with dentures if you prepare it correctly. Try slow-cooking red meats or incorporating them into a stew. Stay away from sticky & chewy foods:Sticky foods such as caramel, taffy, peanut butter, and dried fruit can stick the molars and dislodge the denture out of place.  You can still get in all the essential nutrients your body needs with dentures; it just requires a little extra planning. Schedule an appointment if you can not enjoy certain foods because of poorly fitting dentures. We will ensure your dentures fit comfortably so you can live a happy, healthy life. Published by Dr. Namrata Shah Trending

Gum Disease Awareness Month February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that is typically caused by poor oral hygiene. Although this condition can potentially cause tooth loss, the early stages are often painless. Therefore, individuals can live with gum disease for years without noticing any symptoms. Attending annual exams gives your dental team an opportunity to catch gum disease as early as possible and help stop its progression. Symptoms of Gum Disease: Bleeding gums Red gums Receding gums Swollen gums Bad breath Foul taste in mouth Loose teeth Changes to bite alignment Change in partial denture fit Gingivitis Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and the simplest to treat. Patients with gingivitis may have red, swollen gum that bleeds easily. However, many gingivitis patients are unaware of their condition until receiving a formal diagnosis. This stage of gum disease is often reversible with proper care. Treatment for gingivitis often includes professional hygiene cleanings, prescription mouthwash or toothpaste, and excellent daily oral hygiene. Periodontitis Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, periodontitis affects 47% of US adults over age 30. If left untreated, this condition can cause tooth and bone loss. Gum disease is known for its slow progression, but rapid periods of advancement can occur. Professional dental hygiene cleanings, medications, and surgery are effective treatment methods for periodontitis patients. It is also essential for patients with periodontitis to commit to a diligent oral hygiene routine to manage their condition. Risk Factors for Gum Disease: Tobacco use Diabetes Poor oral hygiene Pregnancy Genetics Certain medications Although there is no conclusive link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases, research has collected data to support that gum disease may be associated with certain health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, respiratory disease, and stroke. Prevention Exceptional at-home oral hygiene and regular preventative dental care are the most effective methods to prevent gum disease. Your daily oral hygiene routine should include brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, cleaning the tongue twice a day with a brush or tongue scraper, and flossing daily. In addition, ensure you receive a professional dental cleaning twice a year and at least one dental exam annually. If we detect any signs of gum disease at your preventive visits, we will design a treatment plan to stop the progression and avoid chronic side effects. Published by Dr. Namrata Shah Trending