For many people who wear traditional dentures, adhesive is an everyday necessity. But what if you are new to using your prosthetic? You might have questions about applying adhesive or even wonder if you should use it at all. This guide offers practical advice to help you get comfortable with denture adhesive. Hopefully, you will gain confidence that your new teeth will stay in place all day!
Should You Use Denture Adhesive?
Not everyone with dentures needs to use adhesive. Whether you need it depends on your individual situation. Here are some things to take into account when you are determining if it should be part of your routine:
- Dry mouth: Medications, certain health conditions, or other factors can lead to a dry mouth, which may cause your denture to slip or feel less stable. Adhesive can provide extra grip in these cases.
- Frequent speaking or performing: If you’re a public speaker, musician, teacher, or anyone who uses their mouth often, adhesive can help your dentures remain steady during conversations, presentations, or performances.
- A desire for extra stability: If you want your dentures to stay in place with no worries during meals or social events, adhesive can offer added peace of mind.
On the other hand, adhesive may not be right for you if you are dealing with:
- Extremely loose dentures: Adhesive is not a fix for dentures that no longer fit properly. Schedule a visit with your dentist if your prosthetic feels very loose.
- Allergies: Some adhesives contain zinc or other ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions. If you know you have sensitivities, check the product label or ask your dental professional for advice.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Denture Adhesive
Using denture adhesive correctly can make a big difference in comfort and security. Here’s a step-by-step approach for applying it:
- Prepare your mouth and denture:
- Clean your mouth thoroughly. Use a soft cloth to wipe your gums, and rinse your oral cavity with mouthwash.
- Clean your denture and make sure it is completely dry before applying adhesive.
- Apply the adhesive:
- Cream adhesive: Dab short strips along the base of your denture, keeping the cream away from the edges.
- Powder adhesive: Sprinkle a light, even layer across the base of the denture.
- Adhesive strips: Tear strips into small pieces and place three strips on the denture base. Moisten each strip before pressing it into place.
- Insert your denture:
- Position the denture in your mouth.
- Bite down gently but firmly for a few seconds to help the adhesive bond.
Removing Denture Adhesive at Day’s End
After a long day, it is important to remove your denture and clean away adhesive residue. Follow these steps to prepare your prosthetic for a fresh start each morning:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to loosen the denture. Then, gently lift out the prosthetic.
- Clean your gums and the denture using a soft brush or cloth. Take extra care to remove any leftover adhesive.
- Soak your denture overnight in a cleansing solution. This will help remove any remaining residue and prepare your prosthetic for the next day.
Adhesive may help you get the most out of your denture. If you have questions about how to use it or which adhesive product is best, talk to your dental team for guidance.
Meet the Practice
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, Drs. Schlessel and Hornstein are proud to provide top-quality care for the Beachwood, OH, community. Our team provides dentures, denture maintenance services, and more. If you have questions about tooth replacement or how to get the most out of it, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our office at 216-595-1710.