So what do denture adhesives do? Adhesives are designed to help you live your day-to-day life knowing that your dentures will stay put while you are eating and speaking.
Making the right choice in denture adhesives is vital for those using dentures. There are various options, such as powders, pastes, and pads, leaving the decision largely to personal preference. However, it is crucial to recognize that solely relying on adhesives for secure denture fitting has its drawbacks.
Advantages:
Enhanced Nutrition: Dentures secured with adhesives, may facilitate easier chewing, allowing for a diverse and enjoyable range of foods.
Comfort: Denture adhesives can add a sense of security, enhancing confidence and preventing slippage during daily activities.
Cost: Although adhesive costs are relatively lower, investing in denture refitting or having a new set may prove to be a more cost-effective and sustainable solution in the long run. Ill-fitting dentures cannot be “fixed” with denture adhesives.
Disadvantages:
Messy Application: Regardless of the type, adhesives can be messy, requiring careful and precise application.
Increased Maintenance: Regular removal of old adhesive is imperative to prevent bacterial growth and potential infections. Adding new denture adhesive on top of old denture adhesive will affect their fit.
Zinc Contamination (Oral): The overuse of adhesives containing zinc poses the risk of Zinc Toxicity, leading to prolonged numbness and nerve impairment. Choosing zinc-free adhesives mitigates this risk.
How to Determine Adequate Adhesive Usage:
Apply approximately three pea-sized dots on the fitting surface of your denture.
Watch for oozing; excessive adhesive indicates overuse.
individualized instructions provided by your Denturist and the adhesive manufacturer.
When to Avoid Adhesive Use:
Consult your Denturist here at St. Boniface Denture Clinic for guidance on when to use or abstain from adhesives.
Avoid using adhesive to address ill-fitting dentures; schedule an annual check-up for necessary adjustments.
Wait until post-extraction healing before applying adhesive to tender tissue sites.
Prioritize regular denture cleaning; refrain from using adhesives if daily maintenance is not diligently observed.
Considerations:
Denture adhesives offer a temporary solution; regular check-ups with your Denturist are imperative.
Understand that denture maintenance, including relining, is a common practice.
Long-term solutions for loose lower dentures may involve dental implants due to jaw bone shrinkage over time.
To learn more about your oral health, or the different dental replacement options available from St. Boniface Denture Clinic (Formerly Koster Denture Clinic), book a free consultation at the link below, or call 204-589-3337.
To learn more about your oral health, or the different dental replacement options available from St. Boniface Denture Clinic (Formerly Koster Denture Clinic), book a free consultation at the link below, or call 204-589-3337.