Denture Adhesives
Denture adhesives are relatively new in comparison to oral prosthetics, which have been available for centuries in one form or another. Originally, denture adhesives were made from vegetable gum bases, such as karaya and xanthan. Although these materials are still available, synthetic alternatives, like carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) or gantrez, have become the preferred choices for denture adhesives. Unlike traditional gum bases, the new synthetic denture adhesives are less soluble, which makes them hold quicker and longer.
Denture adhesives are basically nontoxic water-soluble glues that temporarily bind themselves to the gums and oral prosthetic. The binding is meant to prevent slippage and increase bite strength. In addition, these products sometimes provide a barrier to food, which can lodge between the gums and oral prosthetic. In optimal situations the oral prosthetic is adhered to the gum through a natural binding mechanism using saliva. Individuals, who suffer from bone or gum degeneration will not benefit from such methods.
For some individuals denture adhesives provide an added level of confidence. However, most people will experience some form of discomfort with oral prosthetics. A better alternative would be dental implants, which provide a more fixed and permanent solution. Typical oral prosthetics can result in slippage, difficulty speaking, and poor bite strength. The professionals at Medical Center Dental Group offer their clients dental implants, which have a more natural feel and do not require messy denture adhesives. Their clients have experienced more confidence with dental implants.
Medical Center Dental Group's experts understand that natural binding is not always possible, because of disabilities or side effects from medication. Dry mouth or poor muscle control make oral prosthetics difficult to wear. Some clients choose to use denture adhesives under these circumstances. However, applying the gel or paste can be just as difficult. Dental implants allow people with medical conditions an easier way to gain stability and comfort. Our professionals will discuss these concerns and determine the proper treatment options. Implants are usually a better solution.
Denture adhesives are sold in several varieties. Pastes and powders are the most common options, although they tend to be very messy. Strips are also available, however they should be avoided, because they have been linked to soft tissue and bone damage. The pastes typically last longer. Gritty powders are generally described as less messy and easier to remove, but do not provide adequate hold. The clients at Medical Center Dental Group can avoid the daily ritual of applying and removing pastes and powders by choosing dental implants.
Individuals, who use denture adhesives, must struggle with cleaning their oral prosthetic on at least a nightly basis. The oral prosthetic must be soaked over night and brushed in the morning. The gums should also be carefully cleaned after the oral prosthetic is removed. Because clients are only able to use the smallest amount of the paste or powder necessary to maintain some stability, slippage and poor bite strength are often unresolved. The Medical Center Dental Group professionals can discuss Dental implants as a permanent solution to this ongoing problem. Clients are often amazed to discover that the implants feel and function like real teeth.
Denture adhesives should never be used to fix improperly fitting oral prosthetics. An increase in the amount of powder or paste required to bind the oral prosthetic may be an indication that an adjustment or replacement is needed. Continuing to wear poorly fitted oral prosthetics can result in sores and bone loss. If left unchecked this damage could be permanent and prevent the individual from wearing oral prosthetics. The professionals at Medical Center Dental Group want to offer you a more comfortable and functional alternative through dental implants, which will help you maintain a beautiful confident smile.
For any other dentistry related questions or to make an appointment, please contact us at 888.790.0309 or feel free to Ask the Dentist.
