Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 4: Choosing an adhesive
• Method 2 of 4: Apply adhesives
• Method 3 of 4: Maintain good habits
• Method 4 of 4: Discuss issues with your dentist
• Tips
• Warnings

In most cases, your lower dentures should remain in your mouth due to the suction and a thin layer of saliva. However, if your dentures still feel loose, using an adhesive paste on your dentures or making a lifestyle change to make them more comfortable on your dentures can help. Try one or more options to determine which method best attaches your dentures to the bottom of your mouth. If your lower dentures are still slipping after taking these precautions, see your dentist to discuss re-fitting options.

To step

Method 1 of 4: Choosing an adhesive

1. Choose an over-the-counter adhesive paste for a firm bond. Of all adhesives, adhesive pastes are the most common and usually provide the best grip. Adhesive pastes come in different flavors and adhesive strengths. At a pharmacy, choose the pasta that best meets your preferences.
   • Compared to adhesive powders and strips, adhesive pastes usually have the best adhesive properties.
2. If you have a dry mouth, try dental fixings. Dentures usually rely on a thin layer of saliva to adhere to the gums. If you have a dry mouth, your lower dentures may not be attached as well. Adhesive powders are ideal for those with dry mouths as they stick firmly to the gums for 12 to 18 hours at a time.
3. Use adhesive strips if you have narrow jaws or if you have trouble with certain flavors and / or textures. Adhesive strips are usually tasteless and ideal for those who dislike strong flavors or textures. They also provide a more secure fit of the denture for those with narrow or flat jaws. If you fit any of these descriptions, adhesive strips may be the most comfortable option for you.
   • Adhesive strips are the least adhesive of all denture adhesives.
4. Buy a zinc-free dental adhesive to avoid nerve damage. Over time, excessive zinc intake can worsen your health and cause nerve damage and numbness in the limbs. Check the ingredients list on the adhesive before purchasing it so that you are not buying products made with zinc.

Method 2 of 4: Apply adhesives

1. Wash and dry your dentures before applying the adhesive. The denture adhesive adheres best to your lower dentures when it is clean and dry. Brush your dentures with an appropriate brush, then dip them in a denture cleaner. Dry your dentures with a towel before applying the paste to prevent shifting.
2. Apply a paste to the dentures in small dots or strips. Apply three to four dots or strips of adhesive paste around the inside of the dentures. Do not apply the paste too close to the edge of the denture. By adding dots towards the center, the dentures will stay in place better.
   • Start with a smaller amount of adhesive paste and apply more as needed.
3. Cover the bottom of the denture evenly with the adhesive if you are using a powder. Place the dentures on a flat surface and hold the powder bottle directly above it. Gently tap or shake the bottle over the dentures, covering the entire surface that touches the gums with an even layer of powder.
   • A fine layer is usually enough for the dentures to stick to your gums. Shake your lower dentures to remove any excess powder, then tap it while holding it upside down.
4. Cut the adhesive strip to match the shape of your lower dentures if you are using adhesive strips. Place a piece of adhesive strip over your lower dentures and cut it to the shape of the gum line of your dentures. Cut away any overlapping areas until the best fit is possible, then place the adhesive strip inside the gum line.
5. Press the dentures firmly into place. Hold the dentures firmly against your lower gums and bite them for a few seconds. This should secure the adhesion of the adhesive for the whole day. If at any point your lower dentures start to shift, apply more adhesive as needed.

Method 3 of 4: Maintain good habits

1. Speak slowly when wearing your dentures. Sometimes, especially if you are new to wearing dentures, talking too quickly can loosen it up. Concentrate on articulating each word clearly and slowly. If your lower dentures start to slide while you talk, bite down and swallow to slide it back into place.
   • Make a mental note of what words or sounds tend to move your dentures so you can practice them privately.
2. Clean your dentures every day. Proper care of your denture will help prevent it from losing its shape. Clean it thoroughly in the morning with warm water and a soft-bristled brush.
   • Never use toothpaste or household cleaning products on your dentures. Cleaning products not made for dentures can damage them.
3. Store your dentures overnight in a mixture of cleanser and warm water. Soak your dentures in a denture cleaner mixed with warm water every night. The cleaner must be made specifically for dentures as other cleaners can eat the mold over time. Never put your dentures in hot or boiling water, as this can warp the shape of your dentures over time.
4. If your dentures often come loose while eating, try soft foods. If your lower dentures usually come off while eating, try taking small bites from soft foods such as yogurt or mashed potatoes. Chew both sides of your mouth to prevent your dentures from tilting or shifting when you eat.
   • Eggs, applesauce, soup, smoothies, sorbets, and rice are all great soft foods to eat with dentures.
   • If your dentures cause discomfort or pain when eating, they may not fit properly. Make an appointment with your dentist to have your dentures adjusted.
5. Never sleep with your dentures. Dentures worn 24 hours a day can wear down the volume and density of your cheekbone. Over time, this can drastically change your face shape and ruin the overall fit of your dentures. Remove your dentures every night while you sleep to give your mouth the necessary rest.

Method 4 of 4: Discuss issues with your dentist

1. Visit a dentist annually to check the fit of your dentures. Most dentists recommend that people with dentures come for an annual check-up to test for fit issues. A check-up at least once a year will help your lower dentures stay in ideal shape. If your dentures feel loose before the year is up, make an appointment sooner to discuss the possible causes with your dentist.
2. Ask your dentist to do a relining to fix your loose dentures. If your lower dentures are constantly loose, your dentist may suggest performing a relining on your dentures. Relining involves applying a layer of material to the dentures that molds to your gums. This is a common solution for loose dentures if they are still in good condition and the patient is not ready for a new one.
   • Depending on your needs, your dentist can do a temporary or permanent relining.
3. Get new dentures every five years. The lifespan of most dentures is approximately five years. When the five years are up, talk to your dentist about new dentures.
   • If your lower dentures are so damaged or loose that your dentist thinks relining won't help, he may suggest getting new dentures.
4. Consider dental implants if your lower dentures are constantly shifting. While more expensive than regular dentures, dental implants are the best at mimicking real teeth and won't come off. Ask your dentist if you are a good candidate for dental implants and, if so, how much the surgery would cost.

Tips

• Rinse your mouth out with water before putting on your dentures to prevent food from getting caught and loosening the grip.

Warnings

• Do not drink hot drinks with your lower dentures on, as heat can loosen the adhesives from the dentures.
• These steps are not intended to strengthen the grip of ill-fitting dentures. If your lower dentures keep falling out, see your dentist for possible adjustments.