Denture adhesives are an excellent way to provide comfort and confidence to denture wearers. With so many options available, however, choosing the best kind can be overwhelming. If you’re curious about how different denture adhesives work, continue reading. You’ll learn about several common types so you can choose the best one for you.
What Kinds of Denture Adhesives Are There?
Here are some descriptions of the most common denture adhesives along with their strengths and weaknesses:
Creams and Pastes
These adhesives are applied directly to the denture base in thin stripes before the denture is pressed into place.
Pros: They provide a strong hold and are easy to apply.
Cons: They can be messy, especially if you use too much, and may require regular reapplication.
Powders
Denture powders are sprinkled onto a wet denture base to form a thin, grippy film that helps your dentures stay secure.
Pros: Powders are easy to use and can cover the entire surface of the base to give it more grip.
Cons: They might not provide as strong a hold as creams or strips.
Strips and Pads
These adhesive strips can come cut or un-cut and are peeled before being applied to the denture.
Pros: They are convenient and mess-free.
Cons: They may not fit all denture shapes perfectly and can be less effective for a full-day hold.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Denture Adhesive
Strength of Hold
A strong hold ensures that your dentures stay in place throughout the day. Creams and pastes offer the strongest grip, so if you’re planning activities like eating specific foods this is the best type to use.
Ease of Use
The harder a product is to use, the less likely you are to use it. This is why denture adhesives should be easy to apply and remove. In this case, strips and pads are the clear winners.
Comfort
Denture adhesive shouldn’t cause irritation or discomfort. Try to find products that use fewer ingredients like zinc which can cause gum irritation. Zinc-free powders are often the gentlest on your mouth.
Taste
While not of the greatest physical importance, a good adhesive should be tolerable taste-wise. Try to find products that are labeled with a neutral flavor, so your adhesive doesn’t distort other food and drink.
Longevity
If you need your adhesive to last throughout the day, try to find one that will last a long time. Creams are often the longest-lasting products, ideal for all-day use.
As you can see, finding the best denture adhesive for a secure smile involves considering many factors. Experiment with different types to see what works best for you. There is not a truly “best” solution when it comes to denture adhesive. So, find the one that makes a significant difference in your comfort and confidence and stick with it. If you need further guidance, talk to your dentist, they can give you more personalized advice!
About the Author
Dr. Shane Smith is a friendly and knowledgeable dental expert who loves helping his patients regain their smiles. He received his dental doctorate at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and regularly expands his skills through continuing education in advanced topics. Call (870) 932-2644 to schedule a denture consultation at Shane Smith DDS or visit the website to discover other services.