When a new denture is inserted into a patient’s mouth, there is a microscopic space between the hard acrylic of the denture base and the gum tissue in the mouth. This gap is normally filled in with a patient’s saliva, which creates a stronger frictional grip for the denture to the ridge of gum tissue.
Over time, this gap increases in size due to shrinkage of the jawbone and changes in the gum tissue. As this space enlarges, the denture becomes less stable and retentive – especially in the lower jaw where the tongue can easily dislodge the denture.
Dentures adhesives were developed to fill in this space. The sticky contact between the denture base and the gum tissue will improve suction and make the denture more retentive. Most patients prefer thin pastes compared to powders, since they are easier to manage and apply.
However, the use of denture adhesives, while creating better retention, creates a false sense of security for the patient. It serves as a temporary fix for an ill-fitting denture that needs to be relined or replaced. Also, denture adhesives are very messy and difficult to remove from the denture or the mouth. These adhesives need to be cleaned off the denture and mouth at least once a day. Add to these disadvantages the cost factor of purchasing adhesives on a regular basis, and many would conclude there are much better alternatives for denture wearers.
One such option is to have ultra narrow implants installed that will provide the same retention and stabilization for your denture without messy, time-consuming adhesives. Their placement will also slow down the shrinkage of your jawbone and minimize or prevent sore spots from dentures rubbing on the gum tissue.
