While many people find that their dentures hold their place well enough by natural suction, many people prefer to use adhesive to fix them more securely. Denture adhesive typically comes in the form of cream, strips, or powder, and each one works differently than the others. Here’s a quick guide to the different types of denture adhesive to help you figure out which one might be best for you.
Adhesive Creams Make Your Teeth Fit Like a Dream
Denture cream is usually packaged in a tube. To use it, the patient wets their dentures and applies small amounts to the points of contact between the appliance and the gums. However, the best way to apply these creams depends on whether the patient is working with an upper or lower denture and the specific instructions of the adhesive’s manufacturer. Some prosthodontists hold that adhesive creams work best when the dentures already fit properly.
Adhesive Powders Give Your Bite Power
To apply adhesive powder, the patient will wet their dentures and sprinkle some directly on the part that makes contact with the gums. While denture cream is designed to be placed at important points across the denture, powders should cover the whole area of contact. Adhesive powder may be easier to manipulate than denture cream and works best on dentures that fit well.
Adhesive Strips Are Another Great Option
While the other types of denture adhesive work best if the dentures have a decent fit, adhesive strips can work well with dentures with a poor fit. To use these strips, the patient must apply them whole or in smaller pieces to the contact points between the dentures and gums while the appliance is still dry. However, using adhesive strips to secure a poorly fitting denture can negatively affect the way the teeth come together in a bite, which can cause problems like headaches or jaw pain over time.
Which type of denture adhesive is right for you depends on your preferences and your oral health circumstances. Consulting with your dentist can give you the best idea of which type of adhesive will work best for you.
About the Author
Dr. Manpreet Dhaliwal earned his dental degree at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, where he was on the Dean’s List for all four years of dental school. He practiced dentistry in Lansing, MI before returning to his hometown. His office in Kent, WA offers preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry in addition to denture services. To learn more about how to make your dentures hold their place securely, contact his office online or dial (253) 854-2714.