Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss with good reason. These restorations can be customized to look and feel lifelike and are a versatile way to replace some or all of your missing teeth.
Although your dentures are designed to fit like a glove, they may eventually become loose or unstable. If you’re struggling to keep them in place, continue reading to learn more about different types of adhesives to help decide which kind might work best for you!
Why Should I Use Denture Adhesives?
Did you know that your teeth help maintain your jaw? The roots stimulate new bone growth with each bite down, which keeps it strong and healthy under normal circumstances. Unfortunately, when teeth go missing, the foundation of your mouth starts to weaken and grow flatter and thinner.
That means your dentures, which were initially designed using your mouth’s exact dimensions, can eventually become ill-fitting. Not only that, but many patients struggle to keep their prosthetics in place when they’re new. Whatever the cause, if they experience discomfort or feel insecure in their dentures, especially during meals or conversations, applying adhesives may help.
What are the Different Types of Denture Adhesives?
Initially developed in 1913, denture adhesives, or glues, can be applied to the foundation of your restoration to help improve its grip in your mouth. They create a sticky layer between your connective tissues and the acrylic base of your prosthetics to produce a stronger bond. There are three main types, outlined with more information below:
- Creams. This product typically comes in a tube that can be squeezed out for application onto wet dentures. Studies have shown that it has higher adhesive strength than powders, though it hasn’t been tested against strips. This also creates a layer of cushion between your gums and restoration to enhance their comfort.
- Powders. Powder adhesives can be sprinkled more easily onto the undersurface of your teeth and may be recommended for those who struggle with mobility or with applying the right amount of glue. Simply shake off any extra powder and insert them into your mouth as usual.
- Strips. These peel-and-stick adhesives are often the easiest for patients to use and tend to be cleaner because there’s no excess cream or powder to remove. They may work better on poorly-fitted dentures than creams or powders.
What Type of Denture Adhesive is Right for Me?
There are a variety of brands that create different types of adhesives, and the right kind for you depends significantly on your unique circumstances. For example, if you’re to dentures and have developed sores in your mouth, a cream might be ideal because of the added layer of comfort. Meanwhile, if you’ve had your restoration for a few years already and it is starting to feel loose in your mouth, strips might be a more effective way to stabilize them.
If you’re unsure whether it’s better to continue using adhesives or whether you need new dentures, you can learn more by scheduling an appointment with your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at JL Dental benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team who are passionate about helping families in Arnold build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Drs. Laura and Jonathan Mears collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including dentures, to people of all ages. Their caring approach and advanced technology combine to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results intended to last. If you’re concerned about ill-fitting dentures, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (636) 464-6668.