Adhesive Inquiry: Which Denture Glue is Right for Me?

Dentures are a popular solution for tooth loss that can simultaneously rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality. They contain the correct number of pontics (artificial teeth) set in a gum-colored acrylic base, designed to resemble your natural teeth and gums, to boost your confidence.

However, your jawbone thins after tooth loss because roots are required to stimulate new bone growth every time you bite down. They might become loose or destabilized, but fortunately, you can use adhesives to keep them in place. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential options so you can pick the best one for you!

Type #1: Creams

Creams are among the most popular of the different types of denture glue because they strengthen your restoration’s position while providing an added layer of cushion on your gums for a more comfortable experience.

Your prosthetics rely on a tight suction against your connective tissues to remain in place, which can rub against sore spots, making it difficult to wear them. A denture cream might be just what the doctor ordered to provide your mouth with a little extra support, helping to both heal and anchor your new teeth more firmly. They often come in a tube that can be easily squeezed to administer just the right amount of product to your dentures to avoid excessive oozing.

Type #2: Powders

This type of adhesive is intended to be sprinkled over the undersurfaces of your restoration before insertion to create a stronger, longer-lasting bond with your gums. They’re often preferred by patients who may have mobility challenges or struggle with manipulating wet dentures, as it’s easy to shake the container to cover the entire underside of their prosthetics with the powdery glue.

However, according to a 2014 study, this method doesn’t create as strong a bond as creams, and may not form the same layer of cushion, so it’s not necessarily the best solution for everyone’s unique circumstances.

Type #3: Strips

Another popular denture glue comes in the form of sticky strips that form a seal against your gums to keep bacteria and food particles from becoming trapped under the acrylic. They have the right amount of adhesive pre-applied, so there’s much less room for error in the application than with creams or powder. Plus, they might be more effective on ill-fitting dentures than the alternatives, which tend to work best on loose prosthetics that still fit well.

If you’re still unsure which denture glue would best meet your unique needs, you might try asking your dentist! They can provide recommendations that take into account your current dental condition.

About the Practice

At Care 32 Dental of Grand Prairie, you and your family benefit from several dentists who share decades of combined experience. They welcome people of all ages, and provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location, including dentures. They take the time to get to know you so they can tailor treatment plans just for you, then deliver accurate, long-lasting results using state-of-the-art technology. If you’re struggling with ill-fitting dentures, you can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 837-8351.