How Do I Use Denture Adhesive?

Although your dentures were made just for you, with time they can gradually begin to change shape, making it difficult to achieve a secure hold. Unfortunately, this can make using them properly a challenge. Thankfully, temporary solutions like denture adhesive can help in a pinch until you’re able to visit your dentist for a more permanent fix. Here’s how to use them, and why needing adhesive means it’s time to have your dentures examined.

How to Choose a Denture Adhesive

If you’ve never used denture adhesive before, you may be wondering which type is best. After all, there are many different varieties to choose from. The good news is that all work equally well, and which product you select is usually more a matter of personal preference. Here’s how to use each type.

Denture Adhesive Cream

Denture adhesive cream has the benefit of being convenient and easy to use. There’s no need to cut strips or handle potentially messy powders, but you must be careful to apply with a gentle hand, otherwise you could be dealing with a gooey mess. To use this type of product:

• Clean and dry your dentures.
• Apply the adhesive cream directly to the inside of your prosthetic in short strips, careful not to get any on the edges or to use too much, as this can cause it to ooze out once your dentures are on.
• Rinse your mouth out with water.
• Press the denture into place in your mouth, holding it firmly for several seconds.

Denture Adhesive Powder

Denture adhesive powder can be much easier to manage, especially for patients with dexterity issues. Because you don’t need much product, it can often be more affordable than other types of adhesives. To use denture adhesive powder:

• Clean your dentures well and leave them wet.
• Next, spray the denture adhesive powder lightly and evenly on all the surfaces that will contact your gums and the roof of your mouth.
• Moisten your mouth with water.
• Gently shake off any excess adhesive powder from your denture.
• Place the denture in your mouth and bite down on it to secure it into place.

Denture Adhesive Strips

Denture adhesive strips are very convenient in that they don’t require you to handle powder or gauge the right amount of cream for your prosthetic. They can be conveniently reshaped to fit exactly where needed and only require moistening to activate. To use denture adhesive strips:

• Completely clean and dry your dentures.
• Using clean, dry hands, peel off the adhesive strips from their packaging and wet each strip to be used with water.
• Attaching one strip at a time, be careful to avoid the edges of the denture, and do not overlap the adhesive strips. They can be cut and shaped as needed.
• Rinse your mouth with water, and press the denture in place, holding it firmly and biting down.

Cleaning Adhesive Off Your Dentures

At the end of the day, you can easily remove your dentures by swishing some warm water in your mouth and gently pulling them out. Put them somewhere safe and then brush your gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste.

Next, use a second soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the entire denture with mild hand soap or denture cleanser. Floss between each tooth and rinse well before submerging your denture in a glass of water or denture soak.

Remember, your dentures should fit securely and comfortably in your mouth. If they begin to lose shape or you have difficulty keeping them in place, schedule an appointment with your dentist for help. In the meantime, you can temporarily keep them in place with a denture adhesive product of your choice.

About Our Practice

At Advanced Dental Solutions of Pittsburgh, our trio of caring and talented dentists work together to provide a variety of oral health treatments that will leave you smiling! Whether you’ve got a full set of healthy, natural teeth or you’ve got restorations or prosthetics like dentures, we are happy to assist you with a wide range of care options. To make an appointment for dentures, please visit our website or call us today at 412-854-2310.