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Denture Adhesive 101: How to Keep Your Smile Secure and Comfortable

February 14, 2025

closeup of patient smiling with dentures

Your smile plays a crucial role in your confidence and overall well-being. If you have missing teeth, dentures offer a fantastic way to restore both function and appearance. However, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit is essential to fully enjoy their benefits. One way to enhance denture stability is through the use of denture adhesive. Read on to learn how it works and whether it’s right for you!

How Does Denture Adhesive Work?

Denture adhesive acts as a temporary bonding agent that helps secure dentures in place. It forms a seal between the denture base and gums, enhancing stability while preventing food particles from getting trapped underneath. This improves comfort, supports better oral hygiene, and minimizes the risk of gum irritation.

For the best results, dentures should be clean and properly maintained before applying adhesive. Thoroughly clean your dentures to remove debris or residue and store them in water or a protective case when not in use. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleaching products that could damage the material.

Signs You May Benefit from Denture Adhesive

Not everyone requires denture adhesive, but it can be particularly useful if you:

  • Participate in activities that engage facial muscles, such as singing, public speaking, or teaching
  • Experience difficulties with denture retention due to dry mouth or gum tissue changes
  • Want to improve the confidence and comfort of wearing your dentures

How to Properly Denture Adhesive

To maintain good oral hygiene and prevent gum irritation, it’s essential to remove denture adhesive correctly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with nonabrasive toothpaste to gently brush away any residue. Rinse your mouth with a saline solution (a mix of half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) to help loosen the adhesive. Then, freshen your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash while further softening any remaining adhesive. Rinse with warm water to ease denture removal and clear away leftover residue.

If you encounter ongoing challenges with your dentures, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist. They can offer tailored solutions to enhance your experience, ensuring your dentures provide optimal comfort and function!

About the Author

Dr. Jason Kaopua is passionate about helping patients maintain healthy, complete, and beautiful smiles all year round. He’s proud to provide a full range of dental services, including reliable dentures. If you have any questions about denture adhesive, Dr. Kaopua will gladly answer them. To book an appointment, visit his website or call (425) 307-4826.