More and more denture wearers are turning to denture paste as it helps them keep their dentures firmly in position. Dentists are also increasingly prescribing denture adhesive as they are aware of the benefits of using denture adhesive. Apart from enhancing the retention capacity, denture paste improves the ability to chew.
Dentures fixed with denture paste gain more stability and prevent the tiny gaps forming between the gums and denture base. This helps prevent food particles getting lodged there, helping the gums remain free of bacteria and infections like gingivitis. Dentures fixed with denture adhesive give the users an added sense of security and confidence.
The Types of Ingredients That Go into Making Denture Paste
There are 3 types of ingredients that go into the making of denture paste.
Adhesive Agents
Anti-microbials
Flavoring agents
Adhesive Agents include methyl cellulose, karaya gum, polymethyl vinyl ether anhydrate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, acrylamides, which are synthetic polymers, pectin and polyethylene oxide.
Antimicrobials are added to the denture paste to prevent gum infections. These antimicrobials include sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, ethanol, and hexachlorophene.
Flavoring agents that are used in denture pastes depend on the manufacturers and could vary. Popular flavors include mint, and wintergreen, apart from which plasticizing agents and wetting agents may also be added.
How Do These Ingredients Work?
The substance used in making adhesive paste or powder is water absorbent making their volume increase. The paste then works on the proteins present in the mucous membrane. Saliva aids in attaining the right viscosity and contributes to the retention capacity of the dentures. It Is increased viscosity that gives additional strength to the adhesive and adds to the retention capacity.
How Suitable Is Denture Paste for You?
Most of the denture pastes available in the market have good adhesive properties and retention capacities, with some holding good for 24 hours. Denture paste is especially beneficial in cases where the furrow in the jaw is not deep enough or if there are irregularities in the jawline as such issues prevent denture fixing securely in position. Even if there is a decreased secretion of saliva the adhesive property of the denture cream is reduced. First-time denture wearers who need more time to get used to dentures will find the denture paste very beneficial as it gives them immense confidence.
Remember the Following Before Choosing Denture Paste:
- It is better to choose an organic denture paste that is free of zinc, as zinc is known to cause nerve damage if present in excess quantities.
- Don’t forget to seek the advice of your dentist who will guide you on how denture paste should be used without causing damage to gum or bone.
- Read the instructions on the tube of the denture paste or powder before applying. The dentures need to be cleaned thoroughly and dried before applying the denture cream.
- Applying too much denture cream is not advisable.
- Do not drink hot beverages after applying the denture cream as it can react with the cream and cause it to dissolve.
- Remove your dentures before going to bed every night and store the dentures in a glass container filled with water.
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