Stick to It: How Does Denture Adhesive Work?

Dentures are a great way for many people to enjoy complete smiles after tooth loss. While they are designed to easily and securely fit in the mouth through natural suction, many patients turn to denture adhesives to anchor them in place. For some people, this is only for a little added security, but others use denture adhesive to help their appliances work better until they can have them relined or adjusted. Here’s a quick overview of the different types of denture adhesive and how you can use them.

How Does Denture Adhesive Work?

Denture adhesive is designed to temporarily secure your dentures to your gums to increase their stability and prevent food debris from becoming trapped beneath your appliance. Having food particles stuck between your gums and dentures can lead to irritation and oral infections that may accelerate bone loss in the jaw, thereby requiring your appliance to be relined or replaced sooner.

What Types of Denture Adhesive Are Available?

Denture adhesive comes in several varieties that can be found in pharmacies or grocery stores. These include:

Strips

Denture adhesive strips are thin, flexible, and designed to hold your dentures in place securely. You’ll only need to place these strips along your dentures’ points of contact with your gums before inserting them in your mouth.

Powder

Some patients prefer denture adhesive powder that can be easily placed along the interior of their dentures before they wear them. The hold created by these powders lasts longer than those produced by other denture adhesive products, and the powder can be easily removed from the appliance.

Cream

Cream adhesives are a popular option. Similarly to other types of denture adhesive, they are applied to the interior of the appliance before the patient wears them. This creates a strong and secure fit that prevents movement and creates a cushion that helps some patients feel more comfortable.

When you clean your dentures at the end of the day, it’s important to completely remove any lingering adhesive before setting them to soak. It’s advisable to use as little adhesive product as possible as this will save you money while also leaving you with less to clean from your gums and appliance. You can expect to get better at putting just the right amount of adhesive on your dentures as you get more practice.

About the Author

Dr. Rose Johnson earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado and completed a Comprehensive Dentistry Program through the University of Florida School of Dental Medicine. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Christian Medical & Dental Association. Her office in Jacksonville, FL, offers cosmetic, restorative, preventive, and emergency dentistry in addition to denture services. For more on helping your dentures fit comfortably, contact her office online or dial (904) 895-4536.