Our bodies change as we get older, and this includes our teeth. Tooth loss is a common occurrence in people over 60 and can be brought on by a number of conditions, including gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma. You may have thought about obtaining dentures if you are one of those people who has lost part or all of your teeth. If you have difficulty speaking, eating, or smiling with confidence, dentures may be the answer.
Dentures, however, can be difficult to wear, especially at first. As their dentures slip or shift, many people who wear dentures feel discomfort, annoyance, or even embarrassment. Denture adhesives can be useful in this situation. We will go over what denture adhesives are, how they function, and whether you need them in this post.
What are Denture Adhesives?
Products called denture adhesives are used to secure dentures. They are typically offered as creams, powders, or strips that are placed on the denture’s surface before installation. By forming a thin coating between the denture and the gum tissues, denture adhesives increase friction and enhance denture retention.
Adhesives for dentures are not intended to take the place of correctly fitting dentures. You should see your dentist to get your dentures fixed or replaced if they are loose or uncomfortable. Denture adhesives, however, can help even well-fitting dentures stay in place, especially if you have a dry mouth or if bone loss has caused your jawbone to recede.
How Do Denture Adhesives Work?
Denture adhesives function by forming a seal between the gum tissues and the denture. The adhesive forms a thin layer that sticks to the surface of the denture when it is applied. The film binds to the gum tissues when the denture is put in your mouth, providing a suction-like force that helps keep the denture in place.
Moreover, denture adhesives can aid in bridging any openings or crevices between the gum tissues and the denture, improving the fit. Also, denture adhesives can soften the gums, which is particularly helpful if you have sensitive gums.
Denture Adhesives: Types
Denture adhesives come in three major varieties: creams, powders, and strips. Your choice as to which type is ideal for you will depend on the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Denture Creams
The most widely used kind of denture adhesive is denture cream. They come in tubes and are simple to use. You must first clean your dentures before using denture cream. Then, lightly brush the cream onto the denture’s surface. After that, put the denture in your mouth and hold it there for a little while.
Creams for dentures offer a solid grip that can last up to 12 hours. Also, they are water-soluble, making it simple to remove them from your gums and dentures.
Denture Powders
Another type of denture adhesive is denture powder. They frequently come in shaker containers, and you apply them by lightly dusting the denture’s surface with powder. After that, put the denture in your mouth and hold it there for a little while.
Denture powders offer a strong grip that can last up to eight hours. Also, they are simple to remove from your gums and dentures. But, if not administered correctly, they can be sticky and leave a stain on your gums or dentures.
Denture Strips
The most recent kind of denture adhesive is denture strips. They come in thin, bendable strips that are already precut to fit the contours of your dentures. You must clean your dentures and take the backing off the denture strip before using it. After that, put the strip on the denture’s surface and put it in your mouth.
Denture strips offer a dependable grip that can last up to 12 hours. Also, they are simple to remove from your gums and dentures. They can, however, be challenging to use and may take considerable practice to do so well.
Do You Need Denture Adhesives?
Denture adhesives may or may not be necessary, depending on a number of variables. You might not require denture adhesives if your dentures are secure and don’t shift or dislodge. Nonetheless, denture adhesives may be useful if you encounter any of the following problems:
- You have loose or uncomfortable dentures.
- Due to bone loss, your jawbone has shrunk.
- Your mouth is dry.
- Your gums are sensitive.
- You consume gummy or tough foods.
It’s crucial to get the right kind of denture adhesive and apply it properly if you’re thinking about using it. Your dentist can advise you on a suitable product and give you usage instructions.
Tips for Using Denture Adhesives
These are some guidelines to follow if you choose to use denture adhesives:
- Start with a little adhesive and increase as necessary.
- Put the glue on a denture surface that is clean and dry. Avoid applying the adhesive too closely to the denture’s edges.
- Place the denture in your mouth and hold it there for a short period of time.
- After using the glue, wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
- After taking off your dentures, properly clean your gums.
Conclusion
For denture wearers who endure discomfort, itchiness, or trouble keeping their dentures in place, denture adhesives can be a useful aid. Denture adhesives increase the durability and retention of the denture by forming a thin film between the denture and the gum tissues. Denture adhesives come in a variety of forms, including creams, powders, and strips, and each has pros and cons of its own. It’s crucial to get the right kind of denture adhesive and apply it properly if you’re thinking about using it. You can get suggestions and guidelines on how to utilize them from your dentist.
The staff at Kitchener Dentist Sherwood Dental can assist you if you’re having problems with your dentures. Our skilled dentists can assess your dentures and provide you with individualized solutions to enhance their comfort and fit. Call us right away at 519-576-2170 to make an appointment.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.