Denture Holders Containing Zinc

People who wear dentures are being warned that the zinc contained in denture adhesives (used as an odor blocker and bonding agent) is dangerous. Zinc is a mineral that's essential to your health, but too much of it can cause neurological problems, such as numbness and tingling or weakness in arms and legs. Too much zinc also causes copper deficiency, which is what causes the neurological disorders.

Poli-Grip Denture Adhesive

• Poli-Grip denture adhesive contains zinc, but the product is safe if used according to the directions on the package. The problem is that many consumers use too much adhesive with each application and they use it more than once a day. The Poli-Grip adhesives that contain zinc include Super Poli-Grip, Advanced Care, Ultra Fresh and Extra Strength. As a precautionary measure, Glaxo-Smith-Kline, the makers of Poli-Grip, have stopped its manufacture and distribution.

Fixodent Denture Adhesive

• Fixodent is the other well-known brand of denture adhesive containing zinc. As with Poli-Grip, Fixodent is safe if used according to directions, but there are many users who have gotten in the habit of using too much and using it too often. If you have been using one of these denture adhesive products for several years, or more than once a day, you should stop using it and switch to a zinc-free alternative. You also should make your primary care physician aware of your situation.

Neurology Studies

• In June 2008, several institutions conducted studies on Poli-Grip and Fixodent, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and the Mayo Clinic. People who had used large amounts of the adhesives had symptoms ranging from weakness in their arms and legs to urinary incontinence and even cognitive problems. The study concluded that "Denture cream contains zinc, and chronic excessive use may result in hypocupremia [copper deficiency] and serious neurologic disease."