Denture adhesives: choosing the right powders and pastes

Article Abstract:

Although dentists often consider commercial denture adhesives an ineffective solution to the problem of poorly-fitting dentures, millions of people use these products. Dentists, therefore, need to be informed about their characteristics to be better able to advise patients. The denture adhesive industry itself is large, serving as many as 15 percent of denture wearers. People spend more money on denture adhesives than they do on dental floss ($148 million for adhesives in 1989). Twelve denture adhesives meet the criteria for acceptance of the American Dental Association Council on Dental Materials, Instruments and Equipment. The criteria include availability of information on the product's composition; evidence that the product will not harm the denture; and evidence that it will be biocompatible and work as an adhesive. Advantages and disadvantages of these products are discussed. All work by absorbing water, swelling, and becoming viscous and sticky. The relevant features, which are evaluated, include the rate of loss of adhesives from the dentures during wearing; inflammatory changes (uncommon unless patients neglect hygiene); effects on mouth acidity; and functional changes caused by the ways adhesives affect the bite. Certainly, the products increase denture retention and stability during vertical displacement (as in chewing) and when maximum bite force is used. This effect is greater for dentures with poorer initial stability than for those that fit well. In a study of patients' reactions to different preparations, the paste was considered more effective than two powders, but its taste was objectionable. The dental profession does not have data concerning the use of denture adhesives. In general, these products are safe and effective. Dentists should understand their merits and drawbacks. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

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Denture adhesives: changing attitudes

Article Abstract:

Modern denture adhesives are beneficial to many patients. The physical and chemical properties of denture adhesives have been improved since their introduction in the late 1700s. Products available in 1995 provide a longer and stronger hold compared to earlier prototypes. In the presence of water, adhesives swell and fill the spaces between dentures and the oral tissues and they become sticky. While millions of Americans use denture adhesives, many dentists have a negative opinion about these products due to historical myths and speculation. Research indicates that denture adhesives improve oral function, offer greater denture retention and stability, allow patients to chew harder foods, and provide greater comfort. Patients with ill-fitting dentures should not use adhesives as a compensatory mechanism.

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Examining patients' responses about the effectiveness of five denture adhesive pastes

Article Abstract:

Many people appear to prefer the Secure denture adhesive manufactured by John O. Butler Co. Denture adhesives improve the comfort and function of artificial teeth, and reliably hold them in place. Twenty-five experienced denture wearers aged 48-82 used five denture pastes for three days each, then completed a questionnaire about their satisfaction with the products. The Secure denture adhesive was preferred by 72%. Dentists should consider adhesives to improve patient confidence even when the dentures fit well.

Analysis, Consumer preferences, Dental prostheses, Dentures

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