If you are worried about your dentures not fitting well and are looking for some security then dental adhesive can offer some piece of mind. Dental adhesive is a water-soluble, non-toxic material that is applied to the underside of dentures which comes in contact with gums to hold them in place. Denture adhesives are typically used with traditional dentures. The adhesive creates a layer of resistive forces between the dentures and the gums that keep your prosthetic in place making it more difficult for dentures to move or slip out of place. 

These adhesives can improve satisfaction and comfort levels for many denture wearers. Use of denture adhesive is suitable for both full and partial denture wearers. Adhesive helps fix the dentures and gum with a strong hold, so you won’t have to feel any annoying movement. The strong seal also prevents food particles from getting in between the denture and your gums reducing any irritation or pain. There is also dental adhesive for crowns to keep them in place. There are three different types of dental adhesives:

• Creams- This type of adhesive is probably the most popular method of stabilizing dentures. Apply a thin layer of cream using a Q-tip around the edges of your dentures when they are clean and dry. Place your dentures into your mouth and securely press down. It will start working almost immediately. 
• Strips- Adhesive strips are typically considered quick and easy to use. Peel open a strip and put it along the center of your denture after cleaning and drying your hands and dentures. Splash some warm water around in your mouth and attach your denture to your gums pressing it into place. 
• Powders- Ensure that your dentures are clean then wet them with warm water. Sprinkle the powder underneath the dentures. After shaking off any remaining loose powder, place and hold them for a few seconds. 

Pros and cons of different types of dental adhesive. 

A dental adhesive composition can be described as a photocurable ionomer, a phosphorus-containing acidic monomer, radiopaque metal oxide nanoparticles, other polymerizable resin components, and a polar solvent. All three options are great at keeping your dentures, giving you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile in front of others. However, every type of dental adhesive use has its pros and cons.

Pros of denture strips: 

• Denture strips are easy to apply and remove. 
• A mess-free solution.
• Doesn’t come with any unpleasant textures. 

Cons of denture strips:

• They may have the risk of changing the bite associated with them.

Pros of denture creams: 

• Denture creams help prevent gum irritation. 
• Don’t use any zinc. 
• They can also prevent up to 74% of food particles from getting into your denture’s crevices. 

Cons of denture creams:

• Adhesive cream placement may vary a little depending on whether you’re using an upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) denture and the cream manufacturer.

Pros of denture powders: 

• Denture powders are also zinc-free. 
• Generally, last the longest with some powders offering 12-hour security. 

Cons of denture powders:

• Has lower adhesive strength compared to adhesive creams.