Is It Normal for Dentures to Struggle with Chewing Even Noodles?

Is it normal for a complete denture to make it difficult to bite through even a piece of thread?

Recently, my father just received his removable complete dentures about 10 days ago.
After putting them in, he can't even bite through a piece of white bread with his front teeth.
Is this normal? Additionally, he struggles to chew even soft noodles and dumplings with his back teeth.
Could this indicate that the denture occlusion is not properly adjusted? (Or could there be another issue?) Will the biting force improve over time with removable complete dentures? Are complete removable dentures limited to soft foods like porridge, soft rice, and tofu? Is he unable to chew vegetables and regular pork? (This is a daughter inquiring on behalf of her father.) I hope you can help answer these questions.
My father has lost several kilograms because of the dentures, and he spent a significant amount of money, but they are not functioning well, and he is unable to eat.
We are worried that we might have encountered a poor clinic.
Thank you very much.

Nìngmíng, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/05

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If the height and width of the edentulous ridge are insufficient, or if the ridge has severely atrophied, the stability of complete dentures may be compromised.
When wearing the dentures, they may shift during eating, making it difficult to chew properly.
It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with a dentist to assess the condition of the ridge and to check the occlusion between the upper and lower dentures.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/11/05

More Info

It is not uncommon for individuals who have recently received complete dentures to experience difficulties with chewing, even with softer foods like noodles. This can be attributed to several factors related to the adaptation process, the fit of the dentures, and the individual's oral condition.

1. Adjustment Period: After receiving new dentures, there is typically an adjustment period during which the patient learns how to chew and speak with the new appliance. This period can last from a few days to several weeks. During this time, it is normal to feel discomfort or difficulty in chewing, as the muscles of the jaw and the oral cavity need to adapt to the new dentures.

2. Fit and Occlusion: If your father is struggling to chew even soft foods, it may indicate that the dentures are not fitting properly or that the occlusion (the way the upper and lower teeth come together) is not correct. Poorly fitting dentures can lead to instability, making it difficult to bite and chew effectively. If the dentures are too loose or too tight, they can cause discomfort and hinder the ability to chew food properly.

3. Denture Quality and Construction: The quality of the dentures and the skill of the dental professional who constructed them can significantly impact their functionality. If the dentures were made with subpar materials or if the fitting process was not thorough, this could lead to issues with chewing. It is essential to have a qualified dentist or prosthodontist evaluate the dentures to ensure they are made correctly and fit well.

4. Dietary Adjustments: While your father may feel limited to eating only soft foods like porridge or tofu initially, it is important to gradually introduce a wider variety of foods as he becomes more accustomed to the dentures. However, it is advisable to start with softer textures and gradually move to firmer foods as comfort allows. Foods that are easier to chew, such as well-cooked vegetables, ground meats, and soft fruits, can be included in his diet.

5. Follow-Up Care: If your father continues to experience difficulties with chewing after the adjustment period, it is crucial to return to the dentist for a follow-up appointment. The dentist can assess the fit of the dentures and make necessary adjustments. Sometimes, relining the dentures or remaking them may be required to improve comfort and functionality.

6. Long-Term Adaptation: Over time, many patients find that their chewing ability improves as they become more accustomed to their dentures. The muscles of the jaw and the oral cavity strengthen, and patients often learn techniques to manage chewing more effectively. However, this improvement can vary from person to person.

In summary, while it is normal to experience some challenges with chewing after receiving new dentures, persistent difficulties should be addressed with a dental professional. Proper fitting, adjustments, and gradual dietary changes can help improve your father's experience with his new dentures. If he has lost weight due to these challenges, it is essential to seek prompt dental care to ensure he can return to a more varied and nutritious diet.

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