Dentures are a comfortable and lifelike way to restore a smile after tooth loss, but many patients find that they could use a little help getting them to stay in place. Dentures that don’t fit securely can slide about in the mouth, leading to irritation in the soft tissues as well as trouble when chewing or speaking. If you’re having difficulty with your dentures slipping out of place when you speak or eat, denture adhesives may be a great solution to the problem. Here’s how denture adhesive works as well as a guide to using it properly.
How Does Denture Adhesive Work?
While many people find that their dentures stay in place well enough on their own, some patients use denture adhesive to temporarily secure their appliances to their gums. This can create a more stable hold that allows the user to chew and speak more comfortably while also preventing food debris from becoming trapped between the gums and the appliance. However, using denture adhesive to secure dentures that are no longer fitting properly can cause issues such as stress to the TMJ, so it’s still important to have your appliance adjusted when necessary.
How Should Denture Adhesive Be Used?
Some patients find that they only need to apply denture adhesive once a day while others report needing to reapply the product several times. If your dentures are frequently coming loose despite using adhesive, consult with your dentist about proper maintenance or adjustments. When applying denture adhesive, follow these steps:
- Start with clean dentures by brushing or rinsing them.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging to apply the adhesive to your dentures.
- Immediately place your dentures on your gums and hold them there for several seconds.
A package containing 2.4 ounces of denture adhesive should last a patient who wears both upper and lower dentures for about two months. If you find that excess adhesive flows into your mouth after you place your dentures, you’re probably using too much.
How Can I Remove Denture Adhesive?
Your gums and dentures will need to be thoroughly cleaned of all lingering adhesive before you soak your appliance at the end of the day. Take care not to apply any new adhesive to your mouth until all of the old stuff has been cleared away, as putting new glue on top of old glue can prevent a seal from forming. To remove your denture adhesive, stick to the following process:
- Swish warm water or mouthwash to loosen the adhesive from your gums. Spit it out before brushing.
- Brush your gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions.
- Rinse the underside of your denture with warm water and gently brush away the adhesive clinging to it.
Denture adhesive can be a great way to help your dentures fit well. By using it properly, you can ensure that your appliance sits on your gums comfortably and beautifully.
About the Practice
Dr. David Bradley earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in 1995, and he regularly expands his skillset by completing continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. His office in Greensboro, GA offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. For more information on proper denture care, contact his office online or dial (706) 453-1333.