Guide to Denture Adhesives

Do you have a problem with loose dentures?

If you do then you have arrived at the right place. This is the complete guide to denture adhesives. It contains all the information you need about denture adhesives; what they are, the various types and how to use them. Plus there is a section about cost as money always plays a part in any decision connected with dentistry.

This information is designed to help you and anyone who is experiencing loose dentures or dentures which slip.

Step by step guide to denture adhesives

This guide is arranged as follows:

As you can see, this is an easy to follow and structured approach to this subject. There is more than type of denture adhesive to choose from so we have taken an objective look at the various brands available. We have adopted a neutral stance: we do not recommend a particular brand but instead, provide you with the necessary information in order to help you decide.

What type of denture adhesive?

Which type of denture adhesive should you use?

The type of denture adhesive you use is a personal decision. Everyone has their own favourite brand which they prefer for a variety of reasons. You may have to try a few adhesives until you find the one that works for you. Your dentist may be able to recommend a suitable denture adhesive for you.

Applying a denture adhesive

There is also a section about how to apply an adhesive. As with anything there is a right and wrong way of doing something so why not find out the best way of applying denture adhesive from this guide.

If you are a new denture wearer then this may be the first time you have used an adhesive and are concerned about how to do so. So we have included a section which includes information about applying a denture adhesive which is designed for people like you.

Are denture adhesives safe?

Serious issues have been raised about the safety of denture adhesives, in particular, the use of zinc which gives the adhesive its firmness and hold.

But there is concern about whether there is a link between zinc and diseases such as neuropathy (nerve disorder).

These products contain small amounts of zinc which provided you follow the instructions on the packaging, should not cause any problems. But the problem has been that of people using more than the recommended amount of adhesive in order to increase the likelihood of a perfect fit.

One solution has been that of replacing zinc with ingredients which are less harmful but just as effective.

It could be argued that problems like this do not occur if care is taken when using a denture adhesive but there is always a risk.

If you are worried about this issue then ask your dentist for advice.

Other options to denture adhesives

Is there another option? If you are advised against using denture adhesives or decide that you would rather not use a fixative then there are other options. Find out more about these in our alternative to denture adhesives section.

Do you need to use a denture adhesive?

You need to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision. The reason for this is that there are arguments for and against denture adhesives: some people argue that they are unnecessary whereas others say that they remove the worry of loose dentures which also increases their confidence.

There are dentists who advise patients against using adhesives as very often, their dentures need to be relined or rebased. But then there are the numerous advertisements which try to convince consumers of the need to use a denture adhesive.

The answer lies somewhere in the middle. If your dentures are causing you a problem and you find a denture adhesive is comfortable and useful then go with it. It is a case of whatever works best for you.

If you are still uncertain then ask your dentist for advice.

This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision about denture adhesives. The information contained within is presented in an objective manner which we hope will help and advise you about this common issue.

Learn more about denture adhesives