An estimated 38 million Americans wear dentures, whether partial or full sets, to replace missing natural teeth. While dentures may be an affordable and practical tooth replacement solution, they can present challenges in keeping them securely in place in the mouth. This is where denture adhesives can provide a useful assist.
What is Denture Adhesive?
Denture adhesive is a special non-toxic product applied to the ridge of the mouth before placing in dentures to help them fit more snugly. Adhesives coat the tissue surfaces of the gums and dentures, filling in gaps between them and providing a tighter seal. As a dedicated dentist offering affordable dentures in Burnaby describes, many brands contain ingredients that swell slightly when they come into contact with moisture from saliva. This swelling effect puts pressure on the dentures to hold them firmly in position.
Common ingredients in most denture adhesive pastes, powders, and cushions include cellulose gum, polyethylene glycol, mineral oil, petrolatum, natural gums, and zinc. More recently, adhesives using soft thermoplastic polymers have been introduced for better molding and grip strength. The adhesive may be lightly flavored for taste acceptance. It is crucial that the product not irritate sensitive oral tissues or harm gums when used daily. Any adhesive should rinse off easily with water.
When to Apply Denture Adhesive
Knowing the right techniques for using denture adhesive helps gain the most security and longevity before needing reapplication. It’s advisable to put a denture adhesive into place first thing in the morning before swelling and natural shrinking of gum tissue occur later in the day. Starting with a freshly cleaned and dried mouth and thoroughly cleaned denture surface allows the best adhesion. The inner surface of the denture should be free of any food, plaque, or tartar buildup which could weaken bonding. Apply adhesive evenly along all ridges following the product’s directions. Always insert dentures slowly and gently to the ideal placement, biting down lightly on tissue to help seal.
Throughout the day inspection and slight readjustment help confirm continued close fitting. Normal use creates some loosening, so periodically removing dentures and reapplying a thin adhesive layer maintains hold. Avoid leaving dentures in constantly overnight unless advised by a dentist. An eight to twelve-hour adhesive effectiveness per application is typical for quality products before requiring a recoat.
Shopper’s Guide to Selecting Denture Adhesives
Today’s denture wearer has an impressive array of adhesive options promising the best hold for keeping their oral prosthetics stabilized. With so many brands and formulations available, it helps narrow decisions by considering the following:
Ingredient Quality:Clinical evidence for long-lasting, non-irritating, allergic reaction-free results based on time-tested components.
Adhesive Strength and Durability:Ability to maintain consistent grip over many hours of wear, including during eating, without loosening or needing excessive reapplications.
Application Method: Ease of use formula as a paste, powder, wafer, or cushion strip that spreads on smoothly for mistake-free positioning.
Odor and Taste:Light, non-offensive material scent and subtle flavoring for good oral tolerance.
Affordability:Competitive value pricing for routine daily denture wear by cost-conscious consumers.
Trusted Brand Reputation:Reliable company history and dentist endorsements help identify ADA-accepted over-the-counter selections.
Special Product Features:Unique advantages like cushioning, anti-slide agents, antibacterial properties, stain removal, adhesive detectors, and more.
By evaluating which characteristics rank highest for their needs, denture adhesive users can determine the best solution. Consulting a dental professional for advice is also recommended.
