What Is Dental Adhesive?

Dental adhesives are a type of dental glue designed to keep dental improvements like dentures and braces firmly in place. But some worry that adhesives in the mouth contribute to neurological disorders.

Identification

• Dental adhesive, also known as dental cement or dental glue, is a bonding substance applied to the gums, teeth or mouth, in liquid or powder form. The adhesive hardens, allowing those with dentures, orthodontics, or other dental tools, to keep that equipment firmly in place within the mouth.

Dentures

• Dental adhesives are commonly marketed to those wearing dentures. "Denture adhesive can sometimes make it easier to use dentures. Some people find it difficult to get used to a denture, even when it fits well," writes Aetna Insurance. Powdered adhesives are thought to affect the bite pattern of the denture to a lesser extent than paste adhesives.

Considerations

• The majority of dental adhesives contain zinc, a mineral that can be dangerous when consumed in large amounts. Recent lawsuits have been filed against some dental adhesive manufacturers, claiming that individuals have suffered neurological damage as a result of the level of zinc in those companies' products. Those charges are denied by the corporations, but excessive usage of dental adhesives should be avoided.