How to Apply Denture Adhesive
Denture Adhesives: What, Why, and How to Apply
What is denture adhesive?
Denture adhesive is a product that helps your denture fit securely and comfortably in your mouth. They can come in multiple forms—including creams, powders and pastes.i Poligrip® denture adhesive is actually available in all three forms.
How does denture adhesive work?
When you use denture adhesive, water or your saliva interacts with the ingredients in the adhesive, causing it to expand and become sticky, forming a kind of glue. This helps the adhesive bond tightly to your denture and gum tissue, helping to keep dentures securely in place.i
Why use denture adhesives?
In most cases, properly fitted dentures won’t need extra adhesive to help them stay in place.ii It is strongly recommended that you consult your dentist or dental professional with any questions or concerns you may have. However, there are a few reasons why you might choose to use adhesive for your dentures.
- Bone shrinkage: changes in the mouth’s bone structure can cause your denture to become loose over time. Adhesives can help to fill any gaps caused by shrinking bone and temporarily tighten loosening dentures. Contact your dentist to address any changes.ii
- Increased confidence and comfort: some people may use an adhesive to help increase stability in their dentures fit and avoid slippage – particularly in social situations that involve a lot of speaking and eating.iii
- Oral hygiene: denture adhesives can help to seal out food particles and stop them from getting trapped under loose dentures. Visit your dental professional, as directed, to assure good oral health.iii
No matter what the reason for use, it’s important to apply denture adhesives properly. Follow the steps below and be sure to always read the complete directions on the product label to learn the best way to apply denture adhesive — from creams to powders and strips.
Find out more about the different types of adhesives.
