Making It Stick: Which Denture Adhesive Is Right for Me?

Dentures are an incredibly lifelike way to replace lost teeth, but some people find that they can slip and slide about in the mouth too much for comfort. Thankfully, there are a variety of denture adhesive products available to help your appliance sit more securely upon your gums. Here’s a brief overview of the advantages and disadvantages that come with the different types of these adhesives to help you understand which might be the right one for you.

Your Teeth will Fit Like a Dream with Adhesive Creams

Denture cream usually comes in a tube. With most varieties, you’ll only have to apply small amounts of it to a wet denture at particular points along the interior surface that makes contact with the ridge of the jaw. However, the specific instructions vary by manufacturer. Creams typically work well with dentures that already fit properly but need a little help staying in place.

Enjoy Solid Chewing Power with Adhesive Powders

While these adhesives come in powder form, they are otherwise quite similar to denture creams. After wetting your dentures, you sprinkle the stuff directly into the interior part of the appliance that connects with the gums. However, denture powders must be applied to the whole of this area rather than only to specific parts. These adhesives work well on dentures that already fit properly, and while creams may create stronger holds with the gums, many patients find that powder is easier to manipulate.

Keep Your Teeth in Place for the Trip with Adhesive Strips

Depending on the brand, denture strips come in whole sheets or many small strips that are designed to be applied to dry dentures, and they work well on appliances that are not fitting properly. While this can be an excellent solution for many patients, they can have a side effect of changing the way a set of dentures bites together, which can lead to problems such as headaches, neck pain, or TMJ disorders.

When considering if a denture adhesive may be right for you, it is also important to consider factors like your budget, how easily it can be used, and any allergies you may have to its ingredients. Your dentist is the best person to ask about which product can best suit your needs.

About the Author

Dr. Bradford Plasha earned his dental degree at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine before completing an externship in prosthodontics. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. His office in Collegeville, PA offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about keeping your dentures working well, contact his office online or dial (484) 854-6900.