Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss and remain popular today because they’re so versatile and cost-effective. Regardless of how many teeth went missing, your dentist can provide a replacement set to restructure your arches.
But your jawbone starts thinning after teeth go missing, meaning that your dentures, which are customized to fit like a glove, might eventually become ill-fitting. Thankfully, there are different types of adhesives that can help stabilize them, but you might not know which kind is best. Continue reading to learn more about the options so you can make a well-informed decision!
Will I Need Denture Adhesives?
Your dentist carefully customizes your new teeth so they fit the exact dimensions of your mouth, but without as many teeth in place to stimulate new jawbone growth with each bite down, the foundation of your mouth eventually weakens. This can cause the bony ridges in your mouth to flatten, making it harder for your restoration to form a tight enough bond to remain firmly in place. Denture adhesives can be a simple and effective way to improve their grip.
But that’s not the only reason you might need to use one of these glues. These options can also be helpful for teachers, public speakers, musicians, and others who rely on clear enunciation.
How Do Denture Adhesives Work?
These products, developed in 1913, are designed to help make your prosthetics more functional by improving their hold in your mouth. They typically include water-activated polymers that swell when they come into contact with your saliva. This causes them to expand, which provides an additional seal for your restoration, helping it grip your gums more securely while preventing food particles and other debris from penetrating beneath its surfaces.
What is the Best Kind of Denture Glue?
The best type of adhesive for you can depend significantly on your unique circumstances and individual needs. There are three main kinds, outlined in more detail below:
- Creams. These popular products typically come in a squeezable tube, allowing you to apply the cream directly to the underside of your dentures. They provide an added layer of cushioning that can improve fit and comfort, and as a result, are sometimes recommended for new patients who are still adjusting or who have developed blisters or sores from ill-fitting dentures.
- Powders. These can be sprinkled onto the underside of your restoration, then shaken for a more accurate application. Although these can be more convenient and cleaner than creams, which sometimes ooze, they don’t always provide the same strong hold.
- Strips. Premade adhesive strips can be peeled and placed on your prosthetics to improve their bond. These allow for easier application, which can sometimes be ideal for those with mobility issues or other challenges.
If using denture adhesives hasn’t helped at all, it may be time to contact your provider to reline or replace your restoration!
About the Practice
At Holt Family Dentistry, you and your family benefit from two dentists who are dedicated to helping you build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Holt and Dr. Fusco are each incredibly accomplished individually, and they collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including dentures, to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. Their caring approach is paired with advanced technology to deliver accurate, comfortable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (704) 542-2325.