Denture adhesive is used to hold dentures firmly in place in the mouth. While some people believe that denture adhesive is only used for dentures that fit poorly, many people use denture adhesive to enhance the performance of dentures even if they fit well.
If denture adhesive is not used, the person may avoid some foods that are difficult to eat. Denture adhesives stabilize the dentures and secure them so that people do not have to feel inhibited from normal activities such as eating any foods they wish.
Some people feel that denture adhesives are messy or taste bad. There are numerous options for denture adhesives. People who have tried one type of adhesive and were unhappy with the experience may want to try other types of denture adhesives.
Types of denture adhesives include pastes, powders, and adhesive strips. Denture adhesives also vary on added flavors which some people like while others prefer plain adhesives.
Pastes are applied in small strips or dots on the denture. Avoiding placing the paste near the edges of the dentures can help prevent oozing. When the denture is removed, some people clean their mouths with a clean washcloth to remove the adhesive.
Powder adhesives are sprinkled on the underside of the denture. The powder denture adhesive should be applied as uniformly as possible. Excess powder can be shaken off the denture. Many users find powders easier to clean off the denture and the mouth.
Denture adhesive strips, sometimes called wafers, are moistened and positioned on the underside of the dentures. The strips may need to be trimmed to fit properly. After the strips have been trimmed and moistened, the strips are pressed firmly against the denture. The strip is removed by pulling a corner of the strip from the denture and pulling it away. Some people really like the easy cleanup of wafers and strips.
The use of denture adhesives can be even more important for people who have difficulty wearing dentures. This can be people with dementia or with medical or neurological conditions that have impaired their neuromuscular control. People who have concerns about denture adhesives should discuss these concerns with their dentists.
