Do you wear dentures? Do you have questions about them? We have some answers.

Are denture adhesive products safe?

Yes, denture adhesive products are safe when used according to directions. They have been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Health problems because of these products are very rare.

Do I need to use a denture adhesive?

It is a personal choice as to whether to use a denture adhesive. Denture adhesives can be a helpful to consumers, especially when getting new dentures, for extra peace of mind during social events or when eating, or if there is a physical reason that makes a tight-fitting denture challenging.

Denture adhesives should not be used to try to make old or poor-fitting dentures fit better. You should have regular visits with your dental health professional.

What kind of denture adhesives are there?

There are cream and powder varieties available. There also is a liner type of product. When getting your new dentures, talk to your dental health professional about the different options to see which might be the best choice for you.

How much denture adhesive should I use?

You should use small amounts of denture adhesives on well-fitting dentures, applying more only if you need it. Read and follow the directions on the products, visit the manufacturers’ web sites, or talk to your dental health professional for more information.

If you are using a cream adhesive, use only small amounts. Too much adhesive can cause oozing. One tube should last you between three and 10 weeks.

If you are using a powder adhesive, the experts offer the following advice: Use it like you would if you were flouring a cake pan. Shake a little on the denture, tap it so it spreads across the denture, and then tap off the excess.

Do some adhesives contain zinc and if so, are they safe to use?

Different products contain different ingredients, and some contain zinc. It is important to know that all denture adhesives available in the United States are safe when used as labeled. It is expected that consumers might swallow a small amount of the product during normal use. The amount of zinc that a consumer might swallow during regular use is very small and the zinc is not likely to be absorbed by the body.

If you have any questions, you should contact your dental health professional.