Denture adhesive
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- Poligrip Free zinc-free cream. Best for: People who want a zinc-free cream. See options on Amazon
- Super Poligrip Comfort Seal Strips. Best for: Pre-measured, less messy application. See options on Amazon
- Denture adhesive powder. Best for: People who prefer a powder. See options on Amazon
What denture adhesive does
The FDA describes denture adhesives as pastes, powders or adhesive pads that may be placed in or on dentures to help them stay in place. Poligrip, for example, says its Free cream provides an all-day hold, helps seal out irritating food particles from getting under full or partial dentures, and is designed for one application a day.
The ADA's MouthHealthy site says your dentist can recommend appropriate cleansers and adhesives, and that if you use one of these products you should read the instructions and use them exactly as directed.
Poligrip calls this triple action: hold, a food seal and comfort. It says the Free cream is designed for no ooze, and that the strips come in a no ooze or mess format. These are maker descriptions; how well any adhesive works also depends on how well your dentures fit.
Creams, strips and powders
| Form | Example | Maker notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream | Poligrip Free | Zinc free; no artificial colors or flavors; one application a day |
| Strips | Super Poligrip Comfort Seal Strips | Pre-cut strips with a set amount of adhesive; zinc-free; individually wrapped |
| Powder | Extra Strength Super Poligrip Powder | Listed in Poligrip's adhesive range |
Details are from Poligrip product pages. Poligrip says its strips are pre-cut with just the right amount of adhesive, which can help you avoid using too much given the FDA's overuse warning.
Poligrip's range also includes Poligrip Ultimate, Super Poligrip Extra Care and Super Poligrip Original. Formulas differ, so read each label to see whether it contains zinc before you choose, and stick to the amount shown on the pack.
How to apply and remove it
Poligrip describes these steps for its cream:
- Clean and dry your denture and rinse your mouth.
- Apply the cream as shown on the pack, then rinse your mouth.
- Press the denture into place and bite down for a few seconds.
- To remove, swish with water and gently rock the denture loose.
- Brush away any remaining residue with water and a soft brush.
For daily cleaning, see our denture cleaner tablets guide.
Zinc and the risk of overuse
The FDA explains that an excess of zinc in the body can lead to health problems such as nerve damage, especially in the hands and feet. It points to case reports linking numbness or tingling to chronic overuse of zinc-containing denture adhesives; the people in those reports used at least two tubes each week, while some product instructions say one tube should last seven to eight weeks.
The FDA's advice:
- Do not use more adhesive than recommended.
- Know that there are zinc-free denture adhesive products.
- Stop using the adhesive and consult your physician if you have numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
When loose dentures need a dentist
The FDA notes that a large amount of denture adhesive will not necessarily address problems with ill-fitting dentures, and suggests speaking to your dentist to make sure your dentures fit properly. If you find yourself needing more adhesive, ask your dentist to check the fit.
The ADA also recommends regular dental checkups for denture wearers, and suggests looking for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which it says have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
Comfort and daily care
- Keep dentures clean. The ADA says dentures should be brushed daily with a soft bristle brush and a non-abrasive cleanser.
- Store them in water. When not wearing dentures, the ADA says to keep them covered in water to prevent warping.
- Dry mouth? If your mouth often feels dry, see our dry mouth spray guide.
- Natural teeth too. If you have a partial, keep up brushing and flossing; see our dental floss guide.
What to look for when you buy
Poligrip Free zinc-free cream
Best for: People who want a zinc-free cream
Poligrip says its Free cream is zinc free, has no artificial colors or flavors, and is designed for one application a day.
Watch out: Use only the amount shown on the pack.
See options on AmazonSuper Poligrip Comfort Seal Strips
Best for: Pre-measured, less messy application
Poligrip lists pre-cut, zinc-free strips with a set amount of adhesive, individually wrapped.
Watch out: Follow the pack directions for placement.
See options on AmazonDenture adhesive powder
Best for: People who prefer a powder
Poligrip lists an Extra Strength powder in its adhesive range.
Watch out: Check the label for zinc and do not overuse.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Is denture adhesive safe?
- Used as directed, yes; the FDA warns that chronic overuse of zinc-containing adhesives has been linked to nerve problems.
- How long should a tube of denture adhesive last?
- The FDA notes some product instructions say one tube should last seven to eight weeks.
- Are there zinc-free denture adhesives?
- Yes. The FDA says zinc-free products exist; Poligrip Free and Comfort Seal Strips are labeled zinc free.
- How do I remove denture adhesive?
- Poligrip suggests swishing with water, gently rocking the denture loose, then brushing residue away with water and a soft brush.
- Why do I need more adhesive than before?
- Your dentures may not fit well anymore; the FDA suggests speaking to your dentist.
Sources
- Denture Adhesives (fda.gov), U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Dentures (mouthhealthy.org), American Dental Association MouthHealthy
- Poligrip Zinc-Free Denture Adhesive Cream (polident.com), Poligrip (Haleon)
- Poligrip Comfort Seal Denture Adhesive Strips (polident.com), Poligrip (Haleon)
- Denture Products: Denture Cleanser and Adhesive (polident.com), Polident and Poligrip (Haleon)