- Are zinc-containing denture adhesive products safe?
- How can I know how much denture adhesive to use?
- How much zinc is swallowed with normal use of these denture adhesives?
- Is zinc listed as an ingredient on denture adhesives?
- Are there zinc-free alternatives?
- Did the study authors in the 2008 Neurology article reach incorrect conclusions?
- Are zinc-containing denture adhesive products safe?
Yes, these healthcare products have been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are safe and effective when used according to product labeling. Adverse events are very rare. That said, it is important, as with all products, to use only the amount suggested on labels.
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- How can I know how much denture adhesive to use?
Zinc-containing denture adhesives made by CHPA member companies have explicit label directions to both explain—in words—and demonstrate—in pictures—the appropriate use of the creams. In all cases, consumers are advised to use a small amount on well-fitting denture appliances. Too much product is being used if oozing occurs when dentures are put in place.
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- How much zinc is swallowed with normal use of these denture adhesives?
It is expected that consumers might swallow a small amount of the product during normal use. The amount of zinc present is estimated to be comparable to the amount of zinc in six ounces of ground beef and considerably less than is present in most daily multi-vitamins or in six oysters. It also is important to note that it is highly unlikely that zinc that is swallowed, due to its chemical make-up, will be absorbed by the body.
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- Is zinc listed as an ingredient on denture adhesives?
CHPA member companies that make denture adhesives fully comply with all pertinent federal regulations and laws regarding the manufacture, composition, and labeling of these important dental healthcare products. It should be noted that FDA does not require zinc to be listed as an ingredient.
Consumers who have questions about the denture adhesives they use should contact the company directly or their dental health professional for more information.
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- Are there zinc-free alternatives?
As is the case in many products, there are a number of options consumers have regarding denture adhesives. Each variety serves an important need. Consumers should always pay close attention to directions for appropriate use. One tube of denture adhesive should last three to 10 weeks.
Consumers should contact the company that makes the product or their dental health professional if they have any questions.
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- Did the study authors in the 2008 Neurology article reach incorrect conclusions?
The study authors themselves highlighted the speculative nature of their conclusions. Their article was based on non-controlled case reports from four consumers. In each of the cases, an extreme amount of denture adhesive was used for years, two or more tubes of product per week, compared with the one tube of product every three to 10 weeks considered typical. What is not in doubt is the strong safety record of zinc-containing denture adhesives. First cleared for marketing in the United States by FDA roughly 15 years ago, these products are very safe when used as directed and adverse events are extremely rare.
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