First time denture wearers usually find their prosthetic teeth a bit loose and uncomfortable at first, as the cheek muscles and tongue get used to holding it in.
Fortunately, this process does not take long, and many denture wearers report that their prosthetic teeth have sufficient retention to chew and talk properly.
Dr. Thein offers Implant-Supported Dentures in Glendale, CA.
But for those patients who don’t achieve sufficient retention between the denture and underlying tissue, or those whose dentures become unstable due to tissue deterioration from long-term use, denture adhesives may prove to be quite useful. Even on good fitting dentures, the proper application of denture adhesives can further improve retention between the denture material and underlying gum tissues.
More on Denture Retention
When creating dentures, there is always a tiny space left between the pink denture plastic and underlying gum tissue. This space is inevitable, and is a product of limitations in the fabrication process, as well as the constantly changing contours of the gum and jawbone over times. Typically, this space is filled with saliva, ensuring a steady and sufficiently retained denture. But as this gap continues to increase, the stability and retention of the denture gradually diminishes, as well.
Reducing this space helps to optimize denture retention and function. Denture adhesive can be effectively used to fill the space and provide extra retention due to its stickiness, reducing the likelihood of food particles settling between the denture and gums.
Besides improving denture retention, other benefits of using denture adhesives include:
• Providing a sense of security when additional confidence is required
• Facilitating the fitting of new dentures while building the patient’s confidence
• Sealing denture borders to prevent food particles from settling between the denture and gums
• Aiding in eating as you can open your mouth wider
• Reducing irritation caused by denture movement
• Facilitating denture wearing for patients with chronic dry mouth
However, there are a few shortcomings of using denture adhesive, like prolonging the required cleaning time for the mouth and dentures, and the possibility for the wearer developing a false sense of security by assuming that they don’t need professional maintenance, adjustment, and replacing when the time comes.
So, when and how should denture adhesives be used?
To begin with, there are different forms of denture adhesives: pad, powder, and paste. Paste adhesives are better because of their consistent viscosity, which makes them easier to apply and manage; though your denturist may recommend a powder adhesive.
For pastes, apply pea-sized amounts in the palate or jaw bridge for the upper and lower denture. Once you place the denture in your mouth, a thin film of the adhesive will spread across the entire surface.
Remove and clean your dentures every day like you used to before applying the adhesive. The adhesive may be a little tricky to remove, but vigorous rinsing with warm water or salt water can be quite helpful.
Dr. Thein of Boston Dental Care is a board-certified implant dentist offering implant-supported dentures at his private practice located in Glendale, CA. Call us @ (833) 357-7578 for more information.