Denture adhesives are available in paste, powder or strip form and are used to attach dentures to the mouth. It is important to learn how to remove them and clean the gums after each use.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Loosen the Denture Adhesive
Step 1. Let the adhesive loosen by itself
These products lose their bonding power naturally due to the presence of water or humidity. For this reason, most denture adhesives contain substances that absorb saliva, to prevent the moist environment of the mouth from dissolving them. These substances are effective for most of the day, but eventually their abilities are reduced and the adhesive begins to lose strength. You should therefore be able to remove the prosthesis without difficulty and without traces of glue remaining on the gums. The few residues present on the dentures can be removed by washing.
Step 2. Use water to further loosen the product
If you notice that the adhesive is still too strong at the end of the day, you can rinse your mouth with warm water. Before putting it in your mouth, make sure that the temperature is tolerable and that it is not too high.
- Take a sip of water and move it around your mouth for 30-60 seconds. The longer you hold the water in your mouth, the better it will be able to soften the adhesive from the gum surface.
- After a minute, spit it into the sink.
- Repeat the process a couple of times and you will find that most of the glue has been removed.
Step 3. Try a mouthwash
Alternatively, you can replace the water with a mouthwash. The humidity of this product manages to loosen the adhesive and at the same time gives you a fresh breath.
You can also use a saline solution to rinse your mouth before removing the dentures. Simply mix about a tablespoon of salt into a glass of water for two minutes or until dissolved
Part 2 of 3: Remove the Denture and Clean the Gums
Step 1. Learn how to remove the prosthesis correctly
First, remove your lower arch by grasping it with your thumbs and index fingers, then perform a sideways motion to loosen your grip. Typically the lower denture detaches without having to apply excessive force.
- The upper portion usually presents a few more difficulties. Push the prosthesis up and out towards the nose with your thumbs.
- You can also push by putting your index fingers to the side. If you can get the air to pass between the teeth and the mucous membrane, it should come off easily. The part that creates the most suction is at the bottom of the dentures, where the edges are in contact with the soft palate; when you need to remove it, try to get as far as possible.
- If you are having difficulty with this procedure, go to your dentist's office for help and advice. The chair assistant will be happy to help you or the reception staff will be able to give you tips to improve your technique and be able to extract the dentures.
Step 2. Use a towel to clean your gums once you have removed the dentures
If any traces of adhesive remain on the gum surface, you can easily get rid of them with a damp, warm cloth. Rub it in gently in circular motions to loosen any sticky residue.
Step 3. Give the toothbrush a try
Alternatively, you can use this tool to peel off any traces of glue that are left on the gums. Put some toothpaste on the bristles (a pea-sized amount) and gently brush the gums.
- In this way you detach the product residues and take care of gum health.
- Such daily cleaning is recommended as a regular oral hygiene procedure.
Step 4. Use your fingertips
Once you have managed to remove the dentures, you can simply use your fingers instead of the cloth or toothbrush. Just massage the gums, palate, and other surfaces on which the prostheses rest. Make firm circular motions to loosen any traces of glue. Finally rinse your mouth if necessary and massage your gums once more to make sure you've done a thorough job.
- Gum massage increases blood circulation and improves mucosal health.
- Be careful not to hurt yourself with your fingernails! If you keep them long, you should use another method to clean the gums.
Part 3 of 3: Apply Denture Adhesive
Step 1. Use a cream adhesive
It is generally recommended to apply 3-4 drops of cream (the size of a pencil eraser) on both the upper and lower dentures before placing them in the mouth. Do not use larger quantities if you want to remove the prosthesis without difficulty at a later time. You can understand that you have gone too far, if the cream comes out of the edges of the dentures when you insert them.
Step 2. Try the powder products
This is a further solution; just sprinkle the product on the prosthesis of both the upper and lower arches before inserting them in the mouth. Remember to shake the dentures a little to spread the adhesive evenly; you should sprinkle it like powdered sugar on a cake.
Step 3. Be careful when using denture adhesives
You will not get any benefit by increasing the dosage. In fact, too much glue does not guarantee a better seal, so strictly follow the instructions on the package or those given to you by the dentist. Also, do not apply the product more than once a day. Finally, remember that adhesive cannot solve the problem of a poorly fitting denture. If you are concerned that the denture is not appropriate for your shape, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Warnings
- Don't apply too much pressure with your toothbrush or fingers, as this can irritate and damage your gums.
- Do not try to remove the adhesive using pointed or sharp objects, you could injure your gums.
- Avoid using products that contain zinc for long periods, as they can cause serious health problems.
