Denture creams are commonly used by people who wear dentures on a daily
basis. While the denture creams are very essential to hold the dentures in
place to avoid slipping, research has shown that dentures could be harming your
health. Most dentures are made from chemical compounds such as sodium
carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polymethyl vinyl ether-Malevich anhydride
(PVM-MA). However, some have zinc added to the ingredients to strengthen the adhesion
of dentures. Zinc has been found to be one of the chemicals causing dangerous
side effects from denture creams.
Effects of denture creams on your
health
The main mineral causing health problems from using denture creams is
zinc. While our bodies have naturally occurring levels of zinc and copper, the overconsumption
of zinc may offset the balance between zinc and copper in the body. This loss
of balance over a long period of time is what causes dangerous health effects.
Below are some of the effects of long term use of denture creams.
-
Zinc poisoning
This results from high amounts of zinc in the body than the recommended
levels. Popular denture creams such as Fixodent are known to contain noticeable
amounts of zinc, which could lead to poisoning over a long period of time. The
body only needs a certain amount of zinc in the blood, and excessive zinc in
the blood could prove to be dangerous and cause side effects such as
hyperzincemia.
-
Hypocupremia
This refers to the depletion of copper levels in the body. Copper, as
well as zinc, are required in small amounts in the body for various
neurological functions. If copper is depleted in the blood, the body responds
by having neurological dysfunctions and other complications.
-
Neuropathy
Because zinc and copper are related to neurological functions in the
body, an imbalance in the required quantities may lead to numbness and/or
weakness in the limbs. In severe cases, the affected persons may become a vegetable.
Other effects denture cream can have anaemia and bone marrow
degeneration as well as nerve damage.
How to prevent the side effects
of denture creams?
Even with the effects that denture creams have, they still remain very
useful for people with dentures. While some companies have committed to producing
zinc-free denture creams, some people are still exposed to the brands that are
not and therefore need advice on how to avert the effects of zinc.
The best advice is to discontinue using denture creams altogether, but
that may not apply to people who really need them. So they are advised to avoid
dentures that are ill-fitting and to avoid using the creams if they have sores
in their mouth. Additionally, improper use of dentures is also not recommended.
Dentures may need to be replaced from time to time by your dentist.
Bottom Line
Denture creams have adverse effects if used improperly and over a long
period of time because of zinc exposure. However, proper utility and dental
hygiene can minimize the effects of denture creams. Visit Carrum Downs Dental
Group and have your dentures evaluated to know if you may need some adjustments
or a new set.
