If you’re having trouble adjusting to your dentures, denture adhesive is an excellent tool for keeping them in place. After doing a bit of browsing, though, you might already be feeling overwhelmed and confused. There are several different types of denture adhesive, and each has their own pros and cons. So how do you choose the right product for you and your smile?
It might take some experimenting, but this post can certainly help you narrow down your options! Keep reading to learn more about denture adhesives and why you might choose one over the other.
Cream Adhesives: Comfortable but Messy
Cream-type denture adhesives are more or less what they sound like. You’ll apply a lotion-like substance to the underside of your dentures, press them to your gums, and enjoy a reliable, firmer hold for the rest of the day. These creams are incredibly cushiony, making them particularly well-suited for patients dealing with oral chafing or irritation.
Creams can, however, be quite messy. If you use too much, for example, the adhesive will squeeze out from underneath your dentures. There are other options that are goop-free or easier to clean up, so if this would be a dealbreaker for you, read on!
Powder Adhesives: Quick but Not as Sticky
Imagine being able to improve the stability of your dentures simply by sprinkling an adhesive over them like you would season meat with salt. That’s what you’ll get with powder adhesives! Shake the powder over your dentures, wipe away any excess with a towel, and you’re good to go within a couple of seconds.
Powder adhesives are great if you don’t need maximum stickiness throughout the whole day. They unfortunately don’t last as long as the other types, though, and might not be your best option for all-day excursions.
Strip Adhesives: Adaptable but Pricey
This type of adhesive is the most like tape. They come in pre-cut pieces, and can be cut to better fit your dentures, making it easy to adjust them as needed. You’ll press the strips to the underside of your dentures, and that’s it. No muss, no fuss – and no mess! Some strips even come with padding to help with irritation.
The potentially problematic thing about strip adhesives is that they do tend to be more expensive than the other two options. They can still be affordable, but penny-pinchers might not prefer them.
Where Should I Start?
At the end of the day, the best denture adhesive is one that you’ll actually use. If a creamy mess would make you cringe every time you need a firmer hold, a cleaner and more precise adhesive should be your top priority. If you can’t stand the thought of having to adjust pre-cut strips, stay away from that type – and if you really want something that will last all day, don’t choose a powder adhesive. It really comes down to your personal preference.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of denture adhesive and remember that your dentist is always there to help, too!
About the Author
Dr. Paul Samia earned his dental degree from the Touro College of Dental Medicine at New York Medical College. He knows that adjusting to new dentures isn’t always easy, and would be happy to give you product recommendations based on your unique needs and personal preferences. To contact his office for a consultation or appointment, call (919) 341-1483.