Denture adhesives are widely used by individuals with dentures to enhance stability and comfort, allowing them to eat and speak with greater ease. These products create a more secure fit, which prevents dentures from slipping or shifting during daily activities. A common question regarding their safety concerns a potential link to cancer.
Understanding Denture Adhesives
Denture adhesives are designed to improve the retention and functionality of dentures. They come in various forms, including creams, powders, strips, and pads, offering different application methods. The primary mechanism involves the adhesive swelling upon contact with saliva, forming a viscous layer that creates the natural suction, helping keep dentures in place.
These products typically contain adhesive agents like cellulose gum, methylcellulose, and synthetic polymers. Some formulations also include antimicrobial agents to promote oral hygiene. Certain denture adhesives also incorporate zinc for a stronger bond.
Exploring the Cancer Question
Concerns about denture adhesives and cancer have circulated, particularly regarding products containing zinc. However, scientific consensus indicates no direct causal link between commercially available denture adhesives and cancer when used as directed. The primary health concern historically associated with denture adhesives is zinc toxicity from chronic overuse.
Zinc is an essential mineral, but excessive intake can lead to adverse effects. Reports of negative reactions, such as nerve damage, numbness, and tingling sensations, have been linked by the FDA to chronic overuse, specifically when individuals used two or more tubes per week, far exceeding the recommended usage of one tube every seven to eight weeks.
Other Health Considerations
While not linked to cancer, overuse of denture adhesives, particularly those with zinc, can lead to other health complications. The most significant is zinc toxicity, resulting from prolonged exposure to high zinc levels. This toxicity arises because excess zinc can deplete the body’s copper levels, which are crucial for proper nerve function and blood cell production.
Symptoms of zinc toxicity include numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, difficulty walking, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Other potential, though less common, issues include gum irritation, allergic reactions, and bacterial growth. Allergic reactions, though rare, can occur due to ingredients like zinc or acrylic, manifesting as redness, soreness, swelling, or itching in the mouth.
Responsible Use and Options
To ensure safe use, follow product instructions. Use the smallest amount necessary, typically a thin layer or a few small dots; if the adhesive oozes, too much has been applied. Dentures should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before application; old adhesive residue must be removed daily from both the dentures and the mouth.
Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure dentures fit properly, as changes in jawbone structure can lead to a loose fit. A well-fitting denture often reduces or eliminates the need for adhesives. Alternatives include zinc-free formulations. Other options include denture relining by a dentist or dental implants, which provide a stable, permanent solution by anchoring dentures directly to the jawbone, eliminating the need for adhesives.