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3. Take the Dental Health Quiz

In this Article

• Introduction to dentures
• What are complete dentures?
• What are partial dentures?
• Are there alternatives to dentures?
• Does insurance cover the cost of dentures?
• How are dentures made?
• What do new dentures feel like?
• Will dentures make me look different?
• Will eating with new dentures be difficult?
• Will dentures change how I speak?
• Are dentures worn 24 hours a day?
• Should I use a denture adhesive?
• When shouldn't denture adhesives be considered?
• How are denture adhesives applied?
• What are the types of denture adhesives?
• Are denture adhesives safe?
• Find a local Doctor in your town
• Dentures Index

Should I Use a Denture Adhesive?

A denture adhesive may be considered under the following circumstances:

1. To enhance your satisfaction with a properly constructed denture. Adhesives enhance retention, stability, bite force and an individual's sense of security



2. To assist individuals with dry mouth conditions that lessen denture adherence, such as individuals taking cold medications, those with neurologic disabilities including strokes, and the elderly



3. To provide added stability and security for those who place unusual demands on their facial muscles, such as public speakers or musicians

When Shouldn't Denture Adhesives Be Considered?

There are situations when denture adhesives should not be used. Those cases include:

1. When it is used as a "fix" for ill-fitting or poorly constructed dentures. If your dentures begin to feel loose, cause discomfort or cause sores to develop, contact your dentist as soon as possible.



2. When a dentist has not evaluated your dentures for a long time. Dentures rest on gum tissue and your jawbone, which shrink and deteriorate, respectively, over time. Therefore, the real problem might be a need for a denture adjustment or new dentures.



3. When oral hygiene practices cannot be sustained.



4. When adhesives have been used for a long time, especially when visits to the dentist are infrequent, and when the frequency and volume of the adhesive use increases. These developments may indicate the need for a denture adjustment or new dentures.



5. When any known allergy exists to the adhesive's ingredients.

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