Let’s say you’re just trying to enjoy a good meal or hold a pleasant conversation, but your dentures keep slipping out of place. This isn’t just uncomfortable – it makes it really difficult to move your mouth the way you need to for these activities. By judging the name alone, you’d likely start to think that denture adhesive could help. You’d be right, but there are a few things you should know about applying it.
To learn more about this useful product and how to use it properly, keep reading!
Signs You Might Need Denture Adhesive
First thing’s first: how do you know whether you need denture adhesive or a physical adjustment? Your dentist will be the best person to ask, but in general, you might benefit from some extra support if:
- You’re still getting used to your new prosthetic
- You’re experiencing oral chafing from frequent movement
- You have chronic dry mouth
- You have a job that requires frequent speaking, like teaching or singing
Basically, denture adhesive isn’t meant to be a long-term solution and works best when you need a temporary boost in stability. If you find yourself relying on it more and more often, it’s probably time to have them relined by your dentist!
Preparing Your Dentures for Adhesive
The best way to prep your dentures to receive the adhesive depends on which type you get. Creams and strips stick well after cleaning and drying your dentures, while powders create a better hold when your prosthetic is still wet. After applying the adhesive as directed by the product instructions, rinse your mouth, remove any excess cream or powder, and firmly press your dentures to your gums for a few seconds.
It’s a good idea to bite down once or twice to ensure the adhesive has set properly; otherwise, you should be ready to tackle the day!
Removing Denture Adhesive After Use
Although denture adhesive is designed to be safe to have in your mouth for extended periods of time, it’s not a good idea to leave it on your prosthetic for 24 hours. You’ll have to clean your dentures thoroughly and remove any leftover residue before going to bed. To do this, simply swish warm water around your mouth to loosen the hold on your dentures. Gently pry them out, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to eliminate residue.
After taking care of the adhesive, you can wash your dentures as you normally would – just remember to use a different toothbrush if you scrub them with soap!
Summing Everything Up
Denture adhesive offers a simple fix for a bothersome problem. It’s important to pay attention to how often you apply it, in case the underlying issue has to do with the fit of your prosthetic. But other than that, all you have to do is apply, press, and remove!
If you’d like some help choosing the best type of denture adhesive for you, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist. They’d be happy to give you quality recommendations so you can go about your usual routine without issue.
About the Author
Dr. Shane Smith earned his dental doctorate from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, but as a firm believer in continuing education, hasn’t stopped learning. He diligently seeks advanced training opportunities and has completed courses with notable companies such as Nobel Biocare and Versah. If you need help with keeping your dentures in place, Dr. Smith is well-qualified to recommend adhesive products and reline your prosthetic! To contact his office, call (870) 686-4025.