Denture adhesives are specialized products, typically creams, powders, or pastes, designed to enhance the retention and stability of prosthetic teeth. These products are generally composed of non-toxic, synthetic polymers that swell upon contact with saliva to create a secure, cushioning bond. Accidental ingestion often occurs when a person uses too much adhesive, causing it to ooze out and mix with saliva, or when the adhesive is inadvertently swallowed over the course of a day.
Acute Effects of Accidental Swallowing
A single, small amount of swallowed denture adhesive, such as the residue mixed with saliva, is generally not considered toxic. The primary adhesive agents, which are synthetic gums and polymers, are largely indigestible. This means they pass through the digestive system without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
However, the physical consistency of the adhesive can still lead to immediate, temporary physical discomfort. Swallowing the thick paste may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea or stomach cramps. In rare cases, ingesting a larger volume may lead to a temporary feeling of fullness or mild constipation because the indigestible mass slows down the movement of material through the gut. These symptoms are generally localized to the digestive tract and resolve quickly as the material is eliminated from the body.
Action Plan: When to Seek Medical Attention
While small, accidental ingestion usually causes only transient symptoms, a swift and informed response is necessary for larger ingestions or in the presence of severe symptoms. The first step is to immediately contact a regional Poison Control Center for expert guidance, as product formulations and concentrations can vary greatly between brands. When calling, be prepared to state the specific brand name, the estimated amount swallowed, and the time the ingestion occurred.
Immediate medical care is necessary if the person experiences any severe or concerning symptoms, which indicate a possible obstruction or allergic reaction. These red flags include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of choking
- Severe and persistent vomiting
- A sudden, widespread rash or swelling
If a large portion of a tube or container was swallowed, or if the person is displaying unusual lethargy or confusion, a visit to the emergency room should not be delayed. Healthcare professionals can assess the overall risk based on the ingredients and manage any complications.
The Serious Risk of Chronic Overuse
The most significant health risk associated with denture adhesive ingestion stems from chronic, excessive use of products that contain zinc. Zinc is a mineral added to some adhesives to enhance the bonding strength and stability of the product. The problem arises when people with poorly fitting dentures apply a large amount of adhesive daily, sometimes using two or more tubes per week, which results in the constant swallowing and absorption of excess zinc.
Consuming high levels of zinc over an extended period can lead to hyperzincaemia, or zinc toxicity, which then interferes with the body’s ability to absorb copper. Copper is a trace element necessary for numerous bodily functions, including the production of red and white blood cells and the maintenance of nerve health. The resulting copper deficiency can cause severe and debilitating neurological and hematological conditions.
Neurological symptoms often begin with a peripheral neuropathy, characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness, typically starting in the hands and feet. This can progress to difficulty walking, loss of balance (ataxia), and potentially spinal cord degeneration. Hematological effects include anemia (a deficiency of red blood cells) and leukopenia (a reduction in white blood cells). Recognizing these symptoms and having blood work done to check both zinc and copper levels is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of zinc-induced copper deficiency.