Denture cushions are designed to hold loose dentures in place by forming a vacuum grip between dentures and the gums. The cushions are best used in cases where you are wearing old dentures or if your dentures no longer have a snug fit, which is often due to receding gums. Using denture cushions will help to create a secure bond, providing you with greater confidence when chewing foods. Another advantage in using denture cushions is that they do not dissolve in liquid, making them ideal for people who tend to salivate excessively.
What to Look for
Denture cushions should fit snugly over your dentures. Once they are properly contoured to your dentures, you should not be able to feel them in your mouth. Buy a brand that is easy to trim to get as snug a fit as you can. Some brands allow you to shape them around your dentures by pressing all around the edges to create a seal. Once you do this, you can then trim the excess around the rim of your dentures, leaving an approximate a quarter-inch overlap. Then put the denture cushion and denture back in your mouth and bite down carefully to seal the denture cushion around the denture. If you need to trim more material around the periphery of the denture, do so and then reinsert the dentures and denture cushions in your mouth. Look for denture cushions that come with soft liners to prevent inflammation or tissue irritation around the gum area. Denture cushions are made for both upper and lower dentures and can be found in mint flavor, or without flavor.
Common Pitfalls
Even though your loose dentures will feel more comfortable and secure with the addition of denture cushions, remember that the cushions are not a permanent substitute for a pair of dentures that are custom fitted by your dentist. Use your denture cushions as a temporary measure until you can get to the dentist. Using denture cushions for too long can lead to irritation, sores and even tumors and bone loss. Be sure to consult with your dentist as soon as possible to procure a new set of dentures, especially if you are experiencing recession in the gums.
