Toxic Denture Materials

Dentures can be the source of real discomfort, though denture materials and workmanship have come a long way since George Washington wore dentures made of hippopotamus ivory. However, that doesn't mean modern dentures always a good fit. Some materials used in dentures and dental creams can even can do more harm than good if consumers aren't careful.

Zinc Overload

• In February 2010, the drug maker GlaxoSmithKline stopped making Super Poligrip, a denture cream that had a high level of zinc, after years of alarming reports of denture wearers suffering from zinc overload, reports David Leonhardt in the March 30, 2010 New York Times article, "Weak Rules on Toxins and Safety." Zinc helps with adhesion, and is likely safe used in moderate amounts. However, people were using too much of the cream to hold their sometimes ill-fitting dentures in place. A high level of zinc is toxic to the body and causes copper deficiency, which can result in severe nerve damage. Complaints were also lodged against Fixodent, which still uses zinc, albeit in much less concentrated amounts.

Beryllium

• Many dental restorations and parts of denture frameworks are made of base-metal alloys. Beryllium is often added to metal alloys to increase the strength of the metal-porcelain bond. However, beryllium exposure is associated with diseases, from contact dermatitis to chronic beryllium disease, also known as chronic granulomatous lung disease, according to the American Dental Association. This poses a risk mainly for people who are making dentures or modifying dentures, such as grinding or polishing them, notes the ADA.

Alternatives

• There are many alternatives to zinc-containing denture creams and dentures that use metal alloys. If you have concerns about your dentures, the experts at the ADA suggest that you see your dentist. Only he can check whether you have a proper, tight fit and answer questions about what is in your dentures.