Denture Adhesives: Choosing The Right Option

After you get your new dentures, one of the first things you have to decide on is an adhesive. Denture adhesives keep your dentures in place so that you can talk, eat and move your mouth comfortably. Familiarizing yourself with the different adhesive methods available can help you make your decision.

Creams

One of the most widely available options for denture adhesives are creams. Creams offer the greatest level of adhesion, which is why they are so popular. It can be applied to both your lower and upper dentures and does not lose any of its strength while you eat, drink or move your mouth.

However, it can be a hassle to clean up cream. After you remove your dentures at the end of the day, you have to remove the adhesive material off of them. This keeps your dentures in better condition and ensures they fit over your gums better. As it hardens, the cream strongly adheres to the teeth. Trying to remove it can be a struggle.

Powders

As the name might suggest, denture powders come in powder form. You sprinkle a small amount of powder over the interior side of your dentures and press it firmly over your gums. Once the moisture from your mouth connects with the powder, it turns it into a paste form. The primary benefit of this adhesive style is that it's not as messy to clean up as creams.

Additionally, powder based adhesives are thin and don't change your bite, like some other options. While secure, it's generally best to use this option on your lower dentures. Powder adhesives loose some of their strength each time you eat or drink. Since lower dentures naturally stay in place easier than upper dentures, this can help ensure that the powder doesn't completely lose its grip.

Strips or Wafers

Another option you can choose from are denture strips or wafers. This style is basically a long strip that has adhesive material on both sides, similar to double-sided tape. You attach one side to your gum and the other side to your dentures. While this option is very simple to use, its design does have some drawbacks.

The adhesion doesn't offer a an air-tight barrier over the space between your dentures and your gums. Consequently, food and other bacteria can easily get caught in this space, causing discomfort. Once food gets stuck the only way you can remove it is to remove the dentures, which can be hassle if you have to do this after each meal.

If you're having difficulty choosing a denture adhesive, your dental provider can assist you. It might also be worth it to try several methods until you find which one works best for you. For more information, contact a local denturist at a clinic like Northwest Dental Services.