How to Hold Dentures in Without an Adhesive

Dentures are usually secured to a user's mouth through natural suction. Because of the shape of the jaw, upper dentures typically stay in place better than lower dentures, which are more likely to be affected by eating or speaking. Many denture wearers use adhesives to keep dentures in place, but there are other options you can consider.

Visit your dentist and have him or her check your dentures. An individual's mouth can change over time, making it crucial that you get your dentures refitted every other year (Reference 1). A precise fit can make adhesives--and any other trick to keep your dentures in place--obsolete.

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Take proper care of your dentures by keeping them clean. Dirt and debris can alter the way your dentures fit, making them uncomfortable and less secure. Brush and soak your dentures on a regular basis with a solution designed for dentures.

Practice good oral hygiene. Just as debris on your dentures can affect their fit, so can debris on your gums. Receding gums can also affect how your dentures fit. Brush your gums on a regular basis to keep gums healthy and keep dentures fitting properly.

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Try a denture fixative 1. Unlike adhesives, fixatives go a step further and act as a protective seal between the gums and dentures, preventing small particles from getting in and causing irritation (Reference 2).

Consider a denture-stabilizing product, such as Ultra Suction (Reference 3). This product eliminates air pockets between the dentures and gums, which can cause irritation or a loose fit.

Establish a strong natural seal on your dentures without adhesives by waiting several minutes after putting the dentures in before eating, drinking or speaking.

Consider partials. These are dentures that do not replace the entire upper or bottom teeth, but just a stretch of several missing teeth in a row. You may be a good candidate for partials if you still have a few healthy teeth that can act as supports and anchors for the partial denture.

Tips

Try a different type of adhesive. Health concerns arose over adhesives containing zinc, leading many companies to manufacture the product in a zinc-free form. If you were avoiding denture adhesives because of zinc, you may want to try the new zinc-free products (Reference 4).

Ask your doctor about implants. Unlike dentures, these are permanent fake teeth that are secured to your gums through a surgical procedure.

Warnings

Do not try to glue a broken denture back together. According to the website "DoctorSpiller.com," this can cause damage to the denture and to your mouth.