Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissue. They restore the ability to eat and speak comfortably, improving facial aesthetics. Many individuals seek ways to enhance their stability for comfort and confidence during daily activities.
Understanding Denture Adhesives
Denture adhesives enhance grip and stability by creating a seal between the denture base and oral tissues. They improve retention and comfort, helping wearers feel more secure. Adhesives are available in various forms.
Creams or pastes are common adhesives applied directly to the denture surface. They form a viscous layer that creates a seal, preventing movement and reducing food particle accumulation.
Powder adhesives are activated by moisture. When sprinkled onto a damp denture, the powder absorbs water, swells, and becomes sticky, forming a cohesive bond. This action helps fill small gaps and provides a secure hold.
Strips or wafers are pre-measured, mess-free options. These thin, flexible adhesive sheets are placed on the denture before insertion. They provide a cushioning effect while securing the denture, offering a strong bond and preventing slippage.
Proper Application and Removal of Adhesives
For creams, clean and dry dentures thoroughly before applying adhesive in short, thin strips or small dots, avoiding the edges. Start with a small amount to avoid oozing. After application, insert the denture and press it firmly into place, biting down for a few seconds.
For powder adhesives, clean and dampen the denture slightly. Lightly and evenly sprinkle the powder over gum-contacting surfaces, shaking off any excess. For adhesive strips, ensure dentures are clean and dry, then peel the backing and moisten the strip before pressing it onto the denture surface.
Remove dentures and adhesives daily for oral hygiene. To break the adhesive seal, swish warm water, then gently rock the denture to loosen it. Remove any remaining residue from dentures with warm water and a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Clean your gums, palate, and tongue of any residue with a soft brush and warm water, as leaving it on overnight can cause irritation.
When Adhesives Aren’t Enough: Other Solutions for Denture Stability
Adhesives offer temporary stability but cannot compensate for an ill-fitting denture. If dentures feel loose or uncomfortable despite adhesive use, consult a dentist. Prolonged use of poorly fitting dentures can lead to issues like bone loss or irritation.
Denture relining reshapes the inner surface for a snug fit against the gums. Gums and jawbone change over time, causing dentures to loosen. Relining adds new material to the base, filling the gap and improving stability and comfort. Soft relines use pliable material for sensitive gums, while hard relines use firmer, more durable material for a lasting solution.
Rebasing is a more extensive procedure where the entire denture base is replaced, typically with new acrylic, while retaining existing teeth. It is considered when denture teeth are in good condition but the base is damaged, worn, or no longer fits. Both relining and rebasing are laboratory procedures resulting in a precise fit, without altering appearance or bite.
For long-term stability, dental implants can enhance denture security. Implant-supported or implant-retained dentures use surgically placed implants in the jawbone as anchors. Implant-retained dentures clip onto implants and are often removable for cleaning. Implant-supported dentures are more fixed, receiving full biting force through the implants. This approach can reduce or eliminate the need for adhesives, offering superior stability, chewing ability, and confidence.