The loss of natural teeth remains a prevalent concern worldwide, especially among elderly populations. As a result, millions of people rely on removable prostheses—commonly known as dentures—to restore oral function and aesthetics.
However, despite advancements in prosthodontics and denture fabrication, many users continue to face challenges such as inadequate retention, movement during mastication, and discomfort, particularly in the mandibular arch due to limited surface support and bone resorption.
To address these concerns, denture adhesives have become a widely available over-the-counter solution.
They are promoted as a way to improve denture stability, enhance comfort, and foster user confidence in daily activities like eating, speaking, and social interaction.
These products come in several forms—creams, powders, and adhesive pads—and are easy to apply and remove. Their popularity has grown substantially among both first-time denture wearers and long-term users with ill-fitting prostheses.
From a clinical perspective, the use of denture adhesives is a double-edged sword. While they offer short-term benefits and psychological reassurance to patients, their prolonged and unsupervised use may mask underlying prosthetic problems that require professional intervention.
Moreover, concerns have been raised in recent scientific literature regarding the biocompatibility of some adhesive ingredients, especially zinc-containing formulations, and their potential to cause toxicity or allergic reactions.
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Additionally, denture adhesives may influence oral microbiota, contributing to biofilm formation and fungal colonization, particularly if oral and prosthetic hygiene are not maintained adequately.
This underscores the importance of integrating patient education with evidence-based guidance on adhesive use within dental practice.
In this article, we explore the scientific and clinical landscape surrounding denture adhesives: how they work, when their use is appropriate, their proven benefits, and the risks associated with misuse.
By understanding the pros and cons, both patients and dental professionals can make informed decisions to promote oral health and improve prosthetic outcomes.
What Are Denture Adhesives?
Denture adhesives are substances—available as creams, powders, or strips—applied to the fitting surface of dentures to improve their hold in the mouth.
They are particularly beneficial for:
✔ Compensating for poor denture fit due to bone resorption.
✔ Providing additional security during speaking and eating.
✔ Assisting new denture wearers during the adjustment period.
Advantages
✅ Improved Retention and Stability: Adhesives can enhance the grip of dentures, reducing movement and improving function.
✅ Increased Comfort: By minimizing denture movement, adhesives can reduce irritation and sore spots.
✅ Enhanced Confidence: Users often feel more secure in social situations, knowing their dentures are less likely to shift.
✅ Barrier Against Food Particles: Adhesives can help prevent food debris from getting trapped under the dentures.
Potential Disadvantages
❌ Masking Poor Fit: Relying on adhesives may delay necessary dental visits for denture adjustments or replacements.
❌ Oral Tissue Irritation: Some adhesives contain ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or irritation in sensitive individuals.
❌ Zinc Toxicity Risk: Overuse of zinc-containing adhesives has been linked to health issues like nerve damage. It's crucial to follow usage guidelines.
❌ Biofilm Formation: Improper cleaning of adhesive residues can promote the growth of harmful microorganisms on denture surfaces.
Best Practices for Use
✔ Consult Your Dentist: Before starting or changing adhesive use, seek professional advice to ensure it's appropriate for your situation.
✔ Use Sparingly: Apply a small amount as directed. Excessive use doesn't improve effectiveness and can cause issues.
✔ Maintain Oral Hygiene: Clean dentures and oral tissues daily to remove adhesive residues and prevent infections.
✔ Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine visits allow for assessment of denture fit and oral health, reducing reliance on adhesives.
Conclusion
Denture adhesives can be a valuable aid for improving denture function and comfort.
However, they should not replace properly fitted dentures or regular dental care.
By understanding their correct use and potential risks, patients and dental professionals can work together to ensure optimal oral health outcomes.
Recent Scientific References
- Findings: Certain denture adhesives demonstrated toxic effects on human fibroblasts in vitro, highlighting the need for cautious use.
- Findings: The study evaluated how Candida albicans adheres to different denture base materials, emphasizing the importance of material choice and hygiene.
- Findings: The fabrication method of denture bases affects Candida albicans adhesion and biofilm formation, impacting denture hygiene and health.
