If you wear dentures, you know how important it is to keep them secure and comfortable throughout the day. You may have heard of denture adhesives and wondered if you need one. The answer depends on several factors, including the fit of your dentures, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.
What is Denture Adhesive?
Denture adhesive is a paste, cream, or powder that helps to create a seal between your dentures and your gums. This seal helps to keep your dentures in place and prevents food particles from getting trapped underneath them. Denture adhesives can also help to cushion your gums and reduce irritation.
When You Might Need Denture Adhesive
There are several situations in which you might consider using denture adhesive:
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If your dentures are loose or ill-fitting. Over time, your gums and jawbone can change shape, which can cause your dentures to become loose. If your dentures are loose, they may slip or fall out when you eat, talk, or laugh. Denture adhesive can help to keep them in place.
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If you have trouble chewing. Denture adhesive can help to improve the fit of your dentures, making it easier to chew food.
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If you are self-conscious about your dentures. Denture adhesive can help to give you more confidence by keeping your dentures secure and in place.
Types of Denture Adhesive
There are several different types of denture adhesive available, including:
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Zinc-free adhesives: These adhesives are a good option for people who are allergic to zinc.
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Powder adhesives: These adhesives are sprinkled onto your dentures before you insert them. They are less messy than other types of adhesives, but they may not provide as strong a hold.
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Cream adhesives: These adhesives are applied to your dentures in a thin strip. They provide a strong hold and are relatively easy to use.
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Paste adhesives: These adhesives are thicker than cream adhesives and provide a very strong hold. They are a good option for people who have a lot of trouble with their dentures slipping.
How to Use Denture Adhesive
If you decide to use denture adhesive, be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Here are some general tips:
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Clean your dentures and your mouth thoroughly before applying the adhesive.
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Apply the adhesive in thin strips to the inside of your dentures, avoiding the edges.
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Insert your dentures and bite down firmly to secure them in place.
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Remove your dentures at the end of the day and clean them according to the instructions from your prosthodontist.
Oral Care with Dentures
It is important to practice good oral hygiene even if you wear dentures. This includes brushing your dentures twice a day and soaking them in a denture cleaner overnight. You should also see your prosthodontist for regular checkups to ensure that your dentures are fitting properly and to check for any signs of oral health problems.
Conclusion
Denture adhesive can be a helpful tool for people who wear dentures. However, it is important to use it correctly and to see your prosthodontist regularly to ensure that your dentures are fitting properly. If you have any questions about denture adhesive or oral care, be sure to ask your prosthodontist.
Dental Blog | Wausau, WI | Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry Dr. David Wanserski, DDS, from Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Learn more. Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, 550 N. 17th Ave. Wausau, WI 54401; (715) 848-2435; wanserskidental.com; 6/17/2025; Related Phrases: dental implants Wausau WI;
If you wear dentures, you know how important it is to keep them secure and comfortable throughout the day. You may have heard of denture adhesives and wondered if you need one. The answer depends on several factors, including the fit of your dentures, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.