So, let’s say you rely on dentures to replace your teeth. These prosthetics work very well in most cases and give you a lifelike smile! That said, you may eventually need an adhesive or cream to keep them in place. To stay prepared, then, you’ll want to know the best way to use these products. Luckily, your Piedmont dentist can help you. Here’s a summary of tips on using denture adhesive, including how to apply it, the signs you need it, and how to remove it.
How Do You Apply Denture Adhesive?
In general, applying adhesive to your dentures is a simple process.
First, make sure the dentures are clean. (After all, you don’t want dirty teeth in your mouth all day.) If they aren’t, take time to brush or rinse them.
Next is the actual application of the adhesive. To perform this step correctly, follow the instructions on the cream’s packaging. Otherwise, apply the glue in short strips that avoid the dentures’ edges.
After rinsing your mouth, you can then press the dentures into place. Remember to bite down for a few seconds to secure the hold.
What are the Signs You Need It?
Denture adhesive might work for you if:
- You Want More Confidence: By increasing the strength and hold of your dentures, an adhesive could boost your self-confidence in social situations.
- You Often Strain Your Face: Some professions involve a lot of speaking — singing, teaching, athletics, etc. An adhesive could help people in these jobs by securing their dentures.
- You Have Issues with Dry Mouth: Older people, those on medications, and those with medical conditions are more likely to have dry mouth. Fortunately, denture adhesive can help relieve the issue.
How Do You Remove It from Dentures?
Removing denture adhesive comes in two stages. For the first one, you loosen the adhesive’s seal. The second occurs when you take your dentures out of your mouth.
To loosen the seal of your adhesive, gargle with warm salt water for 30 seconds. You should then spit out the water, rinse, and repeat the gargling step a few times. Most of the adhesive will have washed off your dentures and gums by this point.
Once the dentures are out of your mouth, you can remove the rest of the adhesive. To do so, rinse the prosthetics with warm water and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Afterward, soak them in a denture-cleaning solution.
Using denture adhesive really can be tricky. By using the tips above, though, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
About the Practice
Tylan Creek Family Dentistry is based in Piedmont, SC. As led by its highly-talented team of dentists, our practice provides comprehensive dental services. In other words, we perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency procedures. Therefore, you can trust us with anything from a dental checkup to dentures! For more information or to book a visit, reach us on our website or call by phone at (864)-962-6671.