Denture Adhesive: Overview, Types, Pros and Cons

Are you one of the innumerable people who need dentures to have a confident smile and to eat the foods you love? 

For people who are missing teeth, dentures are a valuable option, but they frequently require a little extra support to keep in place. Denture adhesives can help with that. 

Denture Adhesives Overview

Denture adhesives, also known as dental glue, are specialized materials designed to improve the stability and retention of dentures in the mouth. They provide additional support, which can be especially helpful for individuals experiencing loose dentures or discomfort while speaking or eating.

Denture adhesives come in various forms, including:

• Pastes: Easy to apply and provide strong adhesion.

• Seals: Offer a secure fit and prevent food particles from getting under the dentures.

• Strips: Convenient and mess-free option that provides consistent adhesion.

Each type of adhesive has specific benefits, allowing individuals to choose the one that best suits their needs for comfort and stability.

Types of Denture Adhesives

Denture adhesives are available in a variety of formats to suit diverse preferences and requirements:

1. Denture Creams: 

The most popular kind of adhesive, these usually come in tubes. Creams are simple to use and offer a strong connection.

2. Powders for Dentures: 

You can sprinkle powders directly on your dentures. They break down quickly to form a tight seal. Powders are frequently chosen due to their practicality and usability.

3. Adhesive Strips

Adhesive strips for dentures can be put directly into the denture and are pre-cut. They offer exceptional adhesion and are a mess-free option.

When to Consider Using Denture Adhesives?

Using denture adhesives is a personal choice that is based on your particular requirements and preferences. 

Here are some circumstances in which using denture adhesives may be advantageous:

1. Loose Dentures: 

If your dentures tend to slip or move even after being adjusted by a professional, denture adhesives may be able to keep them firmly in place.

2. Enhanced Confidence: 

By using adhesives, you won’t have to worry about your dentures moving while you speak, laugh or eat.

3. Denture Stabilization: 

if you use dental prosthetics like partial dentures or overdentures, adhesives can help keep them stable.

4. Helping Gum Sensitivity: 

For people who have sensitive or painful gums, adhesives can reduce friction and discomfort.

How to Apply Denture Adhesives for a Secure Fit?

Proper application is essential to achieve a secure fit.

1. Clean dentures:  Start with clean, dry dentures. Brush away any food particles and residue.

2. Apply sparingly: Less is often more with denture adhesives. Apply a thin, even layer to the tissue-contacting surface of the denture. Avoid applying it too close to the edges. 

3. Rinse your mouth: Before inserting your dentures, rinse your mouth with water. This can help the adhesive create a better seal.

4. Insert dentures: Place your dentures in your mouth and bite down gently but firmly. This helps to evenly distribute the adhesive.

5. Check alignment: Ensure your dentures are correctly aligned and comfortable in your mouth.

6. Practice speech and eating: Once your dentures are in place, practice speaking and eating to ensure they feel secure and comfortable.

Pros and Cons of Denture Adhesives

Pros of Denture Adhesives:

• Increased Stability: Denture adhesives give denture wearers greater stability and self-assurance.
• Reduced Irritation: Adhesives can lessen friction and irritation in people with sensitive gums.
• Enhanced Denture Lifespan: Adhesives can aid in extending the lifespan of your dentures by minimizing movement and pressure on them.
  

Cons of Denture Adhesives

• Cost: Denture adhesives can be costly over time, despite not being excessively so.
• Application Time: It may not be convenient for everyone that applying adhesives requires some time and practice.
• Messiness: If applied carelessly, some people find that creams or powders might be a little untidy.

Dealing with Common Denture Adhesive Issues

People may have typical problems when using denture adhesives. Here is how to respond to them:

1. Excessive Adhesive Residue: 

If you see a lot of residue, carefully clean your dentures with a gentle toothbrush and warm water. Abrasive or harsh chemicals should not be used.

2. Dentures are Difficult to Remove: 

Rinse your mouth with warm water to assist in releasing the adhesive if this is the case. To release the dentures, gently rock them back and forth.

3. Irritation: 

Stop using it immediately and see your dentist if you feel gum soreness or irritation. They may suggest different approaches or modifications.

Safety Concerns for Denture Adhesives

• Denture adhesives are safe when used as directed. They are formulated to be non-toxic and safe for oral use. 
• Safety concerns regarding dental adhesives primarily revolve around potential allergic reactions and the risk of overuse. 
• Selecting adhesives devoid of zinc or other potentially dangerous components is advised if you have allergies or sensitivities. 
• Overuse of dental adhesives can result in ingesting too much of these compounds, which could have negative health effects. 
• When it comes to denture adhesives, your dentist is your best resource. 
• Regular dental check-ups and consultations are crucial to ensure your dentures fit correctly and that you're using adhesives effectively.

Is Denture Adhesive Bad For You?

No, they are not necessarily harmful. They improve denture stability and comfort when administered properly and only when needed. 

Following the suggested rules by the dentist is essential because misuse or excessive use of adhesives can result in health problems.

What Are Denture Adhesive Seals?

A particular kind of glue called denture adhesive seals is made up of pre-cut, flexible strips that mould to the curve of your dentures. 

They provide a seal between the gums and dentures, adding further stability and support.