"Chewy al dente pasta plus dentures equals an awkward wrestling match at the dinner table."
Haha, I can totally relate to this! Pasta hasn't been my main issue, but pizza crusts abroad have definitely caught me off guard. I remember being in Naples, excitedly digging into what was supposed to be the best pizza ever... and halfway through, my orthodontic retainer decided it wanted to join the meal. Talk about awkwardly fishing around your mouth in a crowded pizzeria.
Funny enough, pasta's usually fine for me—maybe because I stick to softer sauces like pesto or creamy ones? But pizza crusts overseas seem tougher and chewier somehow. Maybe it's the wood-fired ovens or something about the dough recipe... who knows. Has anyone else noticed certain foods unexpectedly causing trouble when traveling?
Pizza crusts can definitely be tricky, especially the authentic Italian ones. They're delicious but often tougher because of the high-gluten flour and quick, hot baking method. If you're traveling with dentures or retainers, it helps to cut pizza into smaller bites first—sounds obvious, but it really makes a difference. And don't worry, we've all had those awkward restaurant moments...you're definitely not alone in that experience.
Pizza crusts are definitely a sneaky challenge, especially when you're traveling. I remember being in Naples a couple years ago—pizza heaven, right? Well, I was so excited to try the authentic stuff that I completely forgot about my dentures. First bite into that crispy, chewy crust and...yeah, let's just say it wasn't my most graceful moment. 😂
Cutting pizza into smaller bites is solid advice. Another thing I've found helpful is asking for a slightly softer bake if the restaurant can accommodate it. Most places are pretty understanding if you quietly mention dental issues or sensitivities. It doesn't ruin the pizza experience either; you still get all the flavor without wrestling with the crust.
Speaking of tricky foods while traveling, has anyone else had trouble with baguettes or crusty bread rolls? I swear, European bakeries make them extra crunchy on purpose. Delicious, but sometimes feels like you're biting into concrete. I've learned to dip them in soup or olive oil first—makes a huge difference.
Curious if anyone has other go-to tricks or foods they avoid altogether when traveling with dentures or retainers?
I've actually found that asking for softer bakes can sometimes backfire. A few places I've tried ended up making the pizza doughy rather than soft, which wasn't exactly enjoyable. Instead, I've had better luck ordering pizzas with thinner crusts—less chewy and easier on my dentures. Also, baguettes...yeah, they're a tough one. I've started opting for softer breads like focaccia or brioche when traveling; they're just as tasty but way more denture-friendly.
Haha, baguettes are basically denture kryptonite, aren't they? Have you tried sourdough yet? I know it sounds counterintuitive because some sourdoughs can be crusty, but if you find a bakery that does a softer loaf, it's actually pretty denture-friendly. The fermentation process makes the crumb softer and easier to chew.
Also, totally agree about the pizza thing—thin crust is usually the way to go. But have you ever asked them to slice it into smaller squares instead of big triangles? Sounds silly, but smaller pieces mean less tugging and pulling when you're biting down. Might save you from awkwardly wrestling with your pizza in public...been there myself, not fun.
And speaking of awkward moments—anyone else ever had their dentures shift mid-conversation at a restaurant? Nothing like casually trying to reposition them without anyone noticing. 😂
