What You Need to Know About Denture Adhesives

Denture adhesives help form a seal between your denture and gums to stabilize the denture and keep food particles from contaminating that space.^.1,3 Denture adhesives can also ease several denture issues such as denture retention, bite force and chewing comfort for denture wearers.^1,3 They can come in the form of creams, powders, wafers or strips.³

Despite their benefits and wide-spread use, many dentists do not recommend denture adhesives in daily practice because of a stereotype that using denture adhesives means the denture was not properly fitted.³ In many cases, a properly fitted denture should only require a film of saliva to hold the denture in place against your gums.³ If a denture is too loose or causes you discomfort, it may need to be realigned or replaced. Dentists may recommend denture adhesives as a temporary solution while they develop a new denture for you. Dentists frequently recommend adhesives when a patient suffers dry mouth or xerostomia and cannot naturally produce enough saliva to seal or secure the denture to their gums.¹

Some dental adhesives contain zinc, and while small amounts of this mineral is important for good health, it can contribute to harmful side effects if overused.³ If possible, avoid denture adhesives containing zinc, and just use a small amount of the product as directed. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, contact your physician.

What You Need to Know About Denture Cleansers

Dentures should be cleaned daily and thoroughly to remove food particles, reduce bacterial growth and prevent permanent staining.¹ First, you should rinse away loose food and remove denture adhesive, and after this step, use a commercial dental cleanser to reduce the bacterial load on your denture.¹ Always follow the manufacturer’s directions found on the package.

Some dental cleansers come in the form of tablets, creams, pastes, gels and solutions. Each type of cleanser comes with different instructions on how long to soak your denture in the solution. Do not use denture cleaners while the denture is in your mouth. Cleanse the denture after you take it out of your mouth and rinse the cleanser thoroughly from it before you put it backin.¹ Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions found on the package.

Choosing the Right Denture Adhesive or Cleanser

If your dentures stop fitting well or if they become damaged, contact your dentist for product recommendations, You should also contact your dentist if you want more confidence going about your day with your denture in your mouth.⁴