Are your dentures feeling a little loose? You may have heard about denture adhesive and wondered whether it could help.
Denture adhesive provides extra retention and stability. This helps some people feel more secure when eating, speaking, and going about their day.
But how do you know if you actually need it? And does needing adhesive mean your dentures no longer fit properly?
Let’s talk about it.
What is Denture Adhesive?
Denture adhesive is a product designed to help hold removable dentures in place and reduce movement.
You may have heard it called denture glue, although “adhesive” is the more appropriate term.
Denture adhesive are available in several forms, including:
- Denture adhesive cream or paste
- Denture adhesive powder
- Adhesive pads or strips
When used correctly, these products can provide additional retention and stability for some denture wearers.
However, denture adhesive shouldn’t be used to compensate for poorly fitting denture.
If your dentures have become increasingly loose, it’s worth having them assessed by a dental professional.
When should you use Denture Adhesive?
There are several situations where denture adhesive may be useful.
You might consider it if:
- Your dentures have become slightly less secure over time
- You experience occasional movement when eating or speaking
- You want additional confidence during social situations
- You have a dry mouth that affects denture retention
- You have had recent extractions and your immediate dentures require the use of an adhesive
- Your dental professional has recommended adhesive as part of your denture care
Some people find that a small amount of adhesive makes their dentures feel more secure throughout the day. But if you’re constantly needing more and more adhesive, that’s a reason to have your dentures checked rather than simply adding more product.
How much Denture Adhesive should you use?
One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking:
“If a little helps, more must work even better!”
Not necessarily.
You generally only need a small amount of adhesive. The exact amount depends on the product and your individual denture, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If adhesive squeezes out around the edges of your denture then you may have used too much.
How do you apply Denture Adhesive?
The application method depends on the type of denture adhesive you are using.
For denture adhesive cream/paste, the general process is:
- Clean your dentures thoroughly.
- Follow the product instructions for drying the denture.
- Apply a small amount of adhesive to the fitting surface.
- Place the denture into your mouth.
- Gently bite down for a few seconds to help it settle.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions about eating and drinking after application.
Different products have different instructions, so check the packaging before use.
What should Denture Adhesive feel like?
If you’re using denture adhesive for the first time, it may feel a little strange.
You may notice that your denture:
- Feels more secure
- Moves less when eating or talking
- Feels slightly different when you bite
- Takes a little more effort to remove
That’s normal. However, denture adhesive shouldn’t be used to mask pain or significant discomfort.
if you denture is rubbing, causing sore spots, or feels uncomfortable, it needs to be assessed.
What if I need Denture Adhesive every day?
Using denture adhesive every day isn’t necessarily a problem if it has been recommended or is helping a well-fitting denture.
However, there is an important distinction between using adhesive for additional security and replying on large amounts of adhesive because your denture no longer fits properly.
Our mouths naturally change over time. The gums and underlying bone can gradually change shape, meaning a denture that once fitted beautifully may become loose.
You may then need:
- Denture adjustment: a small adjustment may improve comfort and stability
- Denture reline: a reline reshapes the fitting surface of the denture to better match the current shape of your mouth. Check out our blog for further information on denture reline https://falsetoothfairy.com.au/what-is-a-denture-reline-how-do-i-know-that-i-need-one/
- New dentures: if the denture is old, significantly worn or is longer suitable, replacing it may provide a better long-term solution. If you are wondering how often should dentures be replaced, you might find this blog post helpful https://falsetoothfairy.com.au/how-often-should-dentures-be-replaced/
If you are needing increasing amounts of adhesive to keep your dentures in place, it’s a good idea to have the fit assessed.
How do you Remove Denture Adhesive?
At the end of the day, remove your dentures and clean them thoroughly. It is important to remove adhesive from both the denture and your mouth every day. Gently clean your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth as part of your normal oral hygiene routine.
Generally, dentures are usually removed overnight so your oral tissues can rest and the dentures can be cleaned. Avoid aggressively scraping adhesive from your mouth or dentures, as this can cause unnecessary irritation or damage.
Is Denture Adhesive Safe?
When used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, denture adhesive can be a useful product for some denture wearer.
Some points to remember:
- Use the recommended amount
- Clean your dentures daily
- Remove adhesive daily
- Keep your mouth clean
- Have your dentures checked if they become increasingly loose or uncomfortable
If you experience persistent irritation, ulcers, pain or other changes in your mouth, don’t simply cover the problem with adhesive. Have it professionally assessed.
Do You Need Denture Adhesive?
Maybe. Maybe not!
Every mouth and every denture is different.
If your dentures fit well but you would like a little extra security, adhesive may be useful.
But if your dentures are loose, painful, rubbing, rocking when you eat, or requiring increasing amounts of adhesive, don’t just keep adding more.
It may be time for a denture check-up.
At The False Tooth Fairy Denture Clinic in Boronia, we can assess your dentures and talk through your options, whether you need a simple adjustment, denture reline, repair or replacement.
We’re all about finding a solution that works for your mouth, your lifestyle and your circumstances, without judgement and without pressure. 🧚♀️💙
Not sure if denture adhesive is right for you? Book an obligation-free consultation with the False Tooth Fairy today. https://falsetoothfairy.com.au/contact-us/