Look and feel good with dentures

Now here’s something to smile about: Today’s dentures have never looked
or felt better. Because of modern dental technology it’s possible to get
dentures that look as good (or better) as your natural teeth and that fit your
mouth comfortably.

And while wearing dentures usually involves a period of adjustment, many find
they can eventually achieve the freedom to eat most anything they want —
and to laugh and socialize without fear of their dentures coming loose.

Getting a grip

While properly made dentures are designed to fit precisely, many people still
opt to use an adhesive product for the extra security, confidence and peace
of mind it can bring, particularly for special occasions.

In addition to providing a more secure denture fit, adhesives such as Poli-Grip
or Fixident can provide other important benefits. Adhesives allow for more chewing
power by increasing the force that can be applied during biting — this
gives many denture wearers the freedom to eat certain hard foods they may have
been avoiding.

Adhesives can also be beneficial for oral hygiene by preventing food particles
from collecting underneath the dentures. This also helps to alleviate a painful
source of irritation for many denture-wearers.

Worried about ‘clacking’ dentures when you’re laughing or
speaking in public? Because they provide a tighter grip, adhesives can also
boost confidence whether it’s a social outing or a business event.

Keep in mind, however, that an adhesive is not a substitute for properly fitting
dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can be harmful to the gum’s underlying
soft and hard tissues and can lead to inflammation. And because of its movement
on the soft tissue and underlying bone, an ill-fitting denture can also lead
to bone loss. If you find that your dentures are loose, be sure to see your
dentist.

How adhesives work

Simply put, adhesives act as a ‘glue’ to provide a more secure
fit for your dentures. In most cases, the application process is fairly simple.
Adhesives come in several forms, including creams, pastes, gels, powders or
strips. For creams, pastes, and gels simply spread or dab a small amount on
thoroughly clean, dry dentures, as instructed. Strips, which are placed along
the denture, contain ingredients that form a firm seal when moistened. Powders
are typically shaken on a moist denture and then placed in the mouth.

It is important to rinse your mouth before inserting dentures. After pressing
into place, hold firmly and bite down for a few minutes. To remove dentures,
swish mouth with water and remove slowly. Wipe any adhesive residue from gums
and dentures with a moist cloth.

A new sense of confidence

While dentures certainly require a certain amount of getting used to and proper
maintenance, many people discover with their dentures a new sense of confidence
and self-esteem. For some this means finally having the pearly-whites they’ve
always dreamed of. You really can look good and feel good about your teeth —
even if they’re not the ones you were born with.

Read
more tips on how to be more comfortable with your dentures.