Adhesive creams have become part of the daily routine of many people who use dentures. When used correctly, they can provide an additional sense of security; however, there is a common misconception: cream is not the solution for an ill-fitting denture. An increase in your need for denture adhesive cream is actually a sign that your denture needs to be evaluated. As DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic, in Türkiye we discuss this topic openly with our patients.
What Does the Cream Do and What Does It Not Do?
Adhesives support retention in the thin space between the denture and the tissue and can somewhat reduce food debris getting underneath. In a well-fitting denture, they can provide additional security; they especially help the patient feel more comfortable when speaking in social settings.
On the other hand, cream cannot fill the gap between the denture and the tissue. If there is a noticeable misfit, the cream only masks the problem temporarily. Meanwhile, the ill-fitting denture continues to apply irregular pressure on the bone and bone loss may accelerate. In other words, postponing the problem may lead to a greater loss in the long term.
Correct Use
- A small amount is enough: It is applied to the inner surface of the denture in small dots; there is no need to cover the entire surface.
- Clean and dry surface: The denture should first be cleaned and excess moisture removed.
- Do not let it overflow at the edges: Excess product spreads into the mouth and causes discomfort.
- Press after placing: Seat the denture in place and press gently for a few seconds.
- Once a day is enough: If it needs to be added again and again during the day, an evaluation is needed.
The Cleaning Stage
Cream residue should be cleaned both from the denture surface and from the gums. The denture is brushed with lukewarm water and a soft brush; residue remaining on the palate is removed with damp gauze or a soft brush. Accumulated residue may increase microorganism adhesion and lead to bad breath. For this reason, cleaning is even more important in patients who use cream.
When Is It a Warning Sign?
The following situations show that your denture needs to be evaluated:
- The amount of cream you use increasing over time
- The need to apply it more than once a day
- The denture moving when speaking or eating despite the cream
- The denture not holding at all when cream is not used
- Recurring sore formation in certain areas
In these cases, relining, renewal or different options that will increase retention are evaluated. Especially if constant movement is experienced in the lower jaw, the option of a removable denture supported by a small number of implants may provide a noticeable increase in comfort.
The Importance of the Application Method
Squeezing the cream in a single strip down the middle of the denture is a common but inefficient habit. The product is pushed towards the edges during chewing and overflows. Instead, applying it to the inner surface of the denture in small separate dots ensures that the product spreads evenly over the surface and gives a better result with a smaller amount.
Ingredients and Safety
Adhesive creams are generally produced to be suitable for intraoral use. Still, there are points to consider. Long-term and excessive use is not recommended, as it may lead to excessive intake of ingredients in some products. Not exceeding the amount in the product’s instructions for use and attending regular check-ups is the safest approach. We recommend that you show the product you use to your dentist at your check-up appointment.
It should also be remembered that cream does not replace denture cleaning. Using cream does not reduce daily brushing; on the contrary, it requires more meticulous cleaning.
Is Cream Necessary with a New Denture?
A well-fitting new denture usually does not need cream. Short-term use may be preferred for a sense of security during the adaptation period; however, the aim is for this not to turn into a permanent habit. If your new denture cannot achieve retention without cream from the start, a fit check-up should be carried out.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is applied in the morning when you put in your denture. If you need it again during the day, the fit should be evaluated.
Using a small amount may not cause a problem; however, an increasing need requires a fit evaluation.
There are different forms; suitability varies according to the type of denture and preference.
When not cleaned, it can increase plaque accumulation and odor.
Relining, renewal or implant-supported options are evaluated.
Since the support area in the lower jaw is narrow, retention is naturally difficult; the options should be discussed.
If the amount of cream you use is increasing, let us evaluate your denture.
Let us determine the source of the retention problem and plan a lasting solution. Contact us to book an appointment; let us increase your comfort at DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic.
This content is for general information purposes. Product use and denture fit should be planned with your dentist’s evaluation.
