DENTURE ADHESIVES QUESTIONS

Dentures are different to natural teeth and they need special care to help keep them in the best condition.

We have lots of advice on how to care for your dentures, but here we want to answer some common questions about denture adhesives.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF DENTURE ADHESIVE?

Denture adhesives come in a range of different formats including denture adhesive cream, denture powder adhesive and denture adhesive strips.

Poligrip has a full range of products so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Using a Poligrip denture adhesive product will provide strong all-day hold and help to block out irritating food particles that can cause discomfort.

WHAT IS DENTURE ADHESIVE?

Denture adhesives (also known as denture fixatives or denture glue) are designed to hold dentures in place all day to keep you feeling secure and comfortable. They also protect you from gum irritation by helping to seal out food particles, so you can eat, speak and smile with confidence.

HOW DO DENTURE ADHESIVES WORK?

Poligrip Denture Adhesives contain two adhesive polymers which expand as they absorb saliva. As they expand, they interlock, which creates a soft, flexible layer between your denture and gums, for a comfortable fit and a strong hold and seal. Make sure not to overuse the denture adhesive, as this can cause the product to ooze out of the denture.

HOW DO I USE DENTURE ADHESIVE?

For advice on applying denture adhesive, always follow the instructions and guidance included on the pack. Here are some tips on how to apply Poligrip denture fixatives:

• Always clean and dry dentures first.
• Apply denture fixative cream in strips or as directed on the pack, not too close to the edge of the denture.
• Rinse your mouth with water before inserting dentures.
• Press dentures into place, hold firmly and bite down for a few seconds to secure hold.
• Apply once a day. If you find you need to apply more often, consult your dentist – your denture may need a fit readjustment.
• Remember that application instructions differ for complete and partial dentures so always check the pack for details.
• If you’re using denture adhesive for the first time, remember to use only a small amount as using too much can cause oozing. If this happens, apply less next time. It may take a few attempts to find the right amount for your denture.

HOW DO I REMOVE DENTURE ADHESIVE?

To remove denture adhesive, follow the instructions and guidance included on the pack. Directions include:

• First, swish your mouth with warm water.
• Use a gentle rocking motion to slowly remove your dentures.
• Use a soft bristle denture brush (not a toothbrush) and warm water to remove any residue.
• The best way to remove denture adhesive from your gums and mouth is to gently brush your gums and the roof of your mouth with a soft brush and warm water.
• Remember to always follow the instructions on the pack or speak to a dental professional for advice.

WHEN CAN I START USING DENTURE ADHESIVE?

Even well-fitted dentures can take a while to get used to, and using denture adhesive can help to achieve all-day comfort. Once your dentist is happy with the fit of your dentures, you can start using denture adhesives to help hold your dentures firmly in place and to block out food particles from getting underneath your dentures and causing irritation to your gums.

WHY SHOULD I USE DENTURE ADHESIVES?

Secure, well-fitting dentures can help you take on everyday life as before, but denture adhesives can also help to:

• Hold your dentures firmly in place all day, so you can be reassured they won’t move or shift in your mouth. This allows you to speak clearly and smile without worrying about your dentures.
• Boost chewing power and help stop food particles from getting stuck between your gums and dentures. This can help to prevent soreness and irritation and improve comfort, getting you back to eating what you want, when you want.

WHAT DENTURE ADHESIVE SHOULD I BE USING?

If you wear dentures, whether partial or full, Poligrip denture adhesives can help you to feel comfortable and secure, giving you the confidence to get on with living life to the full and relishing the joy of food with your friends and family. Our Poligrip range offers options that can be used for both full and partial dentures. The best denture adhesive to use depends on your preferences, such as flavouring, comfort, and adhesive strength. Below is an introduction to our products and what they are best suited for:

• Poligrip Flavour Free Fixative Cream:formulated with no taste so as not to interfere with your food, this fixative option offers maximum hold and is great for foodies.
• Poligrip Ultra Fixative Cream: with its minty flavour, our Ultra Fixative Cream keeps your breath fresh and your dentures in place with all-day hold.
• Poligrip Max Seal: our Max Seal formula is extra-tough on keeping food particles from getting underneath your denture for optimum comfort. It provides a firm hold for up to 12 hours and has no flavour.
• Poligrip Cushion & Comfort Fixative Cream: for extra protection against gum irritation when wearing your dentures, choose Poligrip Cushion & Comfort. Our ADAPTAGRIP technology forms a hydro-activated gel when the adhesive is used, making a protective cushioning layer between your gums and dentures for a super comfortable fit.

STOP USING DENTURE ADHESIVE IF…

If used as directed, you will normally have no issues using denture adhesive. However, if you notice any of the following, stop using and take action:

• You suffer an allergic reaction: stop using Poligrip denture adhesive immediately if you have any kind of allergic reaction. Although all Poligrip products are zinc-free, allergic reactions can cause anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening. Seek medical advice fast if your tongue, gums or mouth swell up, you feel a tingling sensation or numbness, or you have difficulty breathing.
• Your dentures don’t fit properly: using an adhesive with ill-fitting dentures won’t help them fit your mouth. Poorly-fitting dentures can cause pain and irritation¹. Visit your dentist to get them re-fitted if they feel uncomfortable or move around in your mouth².

Sources:

1. NHS Inform. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/dental-treatments/dentures-false-teeth. Accessed 01/11/2021.
2. NHS Inform. Dentures (false teeth). https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/dental-treatments/dentures-false-teeth. Accessed 01/11/2021.