3 Ways To Apply Denture Adhesive - WikiHow

Home » How To Apply Denture Adhesive » 3 Ways To Apply Denture Adhesive - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Apply Denture Adhesive PDF download Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Using a Paste Adhesive 2 Using a Powder Adhesive 3 Removing Your Dentures and the Denture Adhesive Other Sections Expert Q&A Video Related Articles References Article Summary Medically reviewed by Shayne Guffey, DMD

Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article X

This article was medically reviewed by Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dr. Shayne Guffey, DMD is a Dentist and the owner of Mountain View Family Dental in Mesa, Arizona. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Guffey specializes in family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) from Oregon Health & Science University. Additionally, he’s a professional member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 164,104 times.

Research suggests that you shouldn't need a denture adhesive if your dentures are properly fitted. However, it's totally normal to need an adhesive if you've had your dentures for a long time since your jaw will naturally change shape over time.[1] Studies show that using a denture adhesive makes it easier to chew and talk without worrying about your dentures moving or coming out, so you may prefer to use it even if your dentures fit well.[2] Denture adhesive usually comes in two forms: a paste and a powder. Although using an adhesive can be super helpful if your dentures feel loose, it's not a solution for ill-fitting dentures, so see your prosthodontist if you have fit problems.

Quick Guide: How to Use Denture Adhesive

Clean and dry your denture(s). Apply 3-4 small, evenly spaced dabs of adhesive to the upper denture, then do the same thing for the lower denture. Place the dentures into your mouth and press them together firmly to secure the hold.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Using a Paste Adhesive

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Choose a paste adhesive that is zinc-free. 1 Choose a paste adhesive that is zinc-free. Zinc is often overused in denture adhesives, so much so that zinc-free paste adhesive is now available. Using a paste adhesive that contains zinc combined with a diet high in zinc can lead to excessive zinc in your body and possible health issues.[3]
    • If you use a paste adhesive that contains zinc, only use it as directed on the label and do not use too much adhesive.
  2. Step 2 Clean and dry your dentures. 2 Clean and dry your dentures. Before you apply adhesive, you need to clean your dentures under running water and your normal denture cleanser.[4] Then, pat them dry. Dry dentures will help the paste adhesive to stay attached to the dentures, and to your gums.[5]
    • This will ensure a very stable bite and will prevent food from getting underneath your dentures.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Start by applying denture cream to your upper denture. 3 Start by applying denture cream to your upper denture. Do not use more denture adhesive than directed on the label. Always begin with a small amount of adhesive so you don’t put too much on your dentures.[6]
    • Apply three to four dabs of the paste the size of a pencil eraser to the upper denture, equally distributing the paste on the inside surface. Do not apply the paste too close to the edge of your denture.
  4. Step 4 Place three to four dabs on your lower denture. 4 Place three to four dabs on your lower denture. The dabs should be no bigger than a pencil eraser and should not be too close to the edge of your denture. Again, make sure the dabs are evenly spaced along the inside surface of the denture.
  5. Step 5 Put the dentures in your mouth and press them together firmly to keep them in place. 5 Put the dentures in your mouth and press them together firmly to keep them in place. If any of the adhesive oozes out on the sides of the dentures, you have used too much adhesive. You may need to remove the dentures, clean off the adhesive and reapply, using less on the upper and lower dentures.
  6. Step 6 Use only one application a day. 6 Use only one application a day. If you put the adhesive on your dentures properly, you should not need to reapply the adhesive throughout the day.
    • A standard 40 g tube of adhesive should last at least four weeks, a 47 g tube should last five weeks, and a 70 g tube should last at least eight weeks. Avoid overusing the denture adhesive or using too much every day.
    7. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Using a Powder Adhesive

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Try to buy a powder adhesive that does not contain zinc. 1 Try to buy a powder adhesive that does not contain zinc. Zinc is often overused in denture adhesives. If you have a diet that is high in zinc and/or take vitamins containing zinc, and also use a denture powder containing the mineral, you can experience serious health problems, including nerve damage.[7] Look for powders that are specifically marked asa being zinc-free.
    • If you use a powder adhesive that contains zinc, only use it as directed on the label and do not use too much adhesive. Your prosthodontist may also be able to recommend a powder denture adhesive that does not contain zinc.
  2. Step 2 Clean your dentures. 2 Clean your dentures. Use your usual denture cleanser to give your dentures a good clean before you apply the adhesive.[8] [9]
    • Keep your dentures moist and do not dry them off. The moisture will help the powder adhesive stick to your dentures.
  3. Step 3 Sprinkle the powder evenly onto the surface of either denture. 3 Sprinkle the powder evenly onto the surface of either denture. The key is to distribute the powder in an even layer over your dentures. Shake or vibrate the dentures in your hand to ensure the powder gets on both dentures. Think of this as similar to flouring a cake pan.[10]
  4. Step 4 Place your dentures in your mouth. 4 Place your dentures in your mouth. Use your thumb and forefinger to press the upper and lower dentures into your mouth.[11]
    • Powder adhesives may not make your dentures stay in your mouth as long as paste adhesives. Usually, adhesives are more effective on your upper dentures than on your lower dentures. Liquids and foods can loosen your lower denture, so you may want to consider using a paste adhesive for your lower denture.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Removing Your Dentures and the Denture Adhesive

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Take out your dentures if you feel any discomfort or there is excessive adhesive in your mouth. 1 Take out your dentures if you feel any discomfort or there is excessive adhesive in your mouth. If you feel any pain, tingling, or soreness when you put your dentures in your mouth, or if there is too much adhesive on your dentures, you may need to remove them. You can then try to use the paste adhesive again, or try a different type of adhesive.[12]
    • You will also need to remove your dentures at night before going to bed. You should clean your dentures well and place them in a container with water or a commercial denture cleanser.
  2. Step 2 Rinse your mouth with warm water or mouthwash. 2 Rinse your mouth with warm water or mouthwash. Before you remove your dentures, you need to moisten your mouth and remove any food debris from the day.
  3. Step 3 Take out your lower denture first. 3 Take out your lower denture first. Pull gently at your lower denture and move it back and forth in a rocking motion. It should slowly release from your gums.
  4. Step 4 Remove your upper denture. 4 Remove your upper denture. It may be more difficult to remove your upper denture, as there is a higher surface area for the denture to adhere to.
    • Use your thumb to press against the front teeth. Then, press upward and outward with your thumb towards your nose. Your upper denture should dislodge and come out in your hand.
    • You can also grab it on the lateral sides and go as deep as possible with your index fingers, then pull it down vertically.
    • Do not use any other objects besides your fingers and fingernails to remove your dentures as this could lead to injury.
    • If you cannot get your dentures out and you do not want to sleep with them in or keep them in overnight, you may need to seek medical care at the nearest hospital or clinic. You can also contact a 24-hour dental service for assistance.
  5. Step 5 Clean the adhesive residue from your dentures and your mouth. 5 Clean the adhesive residue from your dentures and your mouth. Don’t leave the adhesive residue on your dentures at the end of the day, as your dentures may not adhere properly the following day when you try to put them in.
    • Use your denture cleanser to clean your dentures. Then, combine hot water and toothpaste in a bowl. Use a soft bristled toothbrush to remove the adhesive residue from your dentures.
    • You should also use the toothbrush to clean any adhesive residue from your gums, your tongue, and your mouth.
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question When using Poligrip do you have to reapply every day or can you keep in longer? Cristian Macau, DDS Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015. Cristian Macau, DDS Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Expert Answer The best way to avoid any irritation of your gums is to properly clean any remaining adhesive at the end of the day. Use Poligrip only when necessary and remember that a good denture does not require adhesive so you should see your dentist to see if something has changed. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 17
  • Question How can I clean off the denture adhesive if it oozes over onto the rest of my gums? Cristian Macau, DDS Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015. Cristian Macau, DDS Cristian Macau, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery Expert Answer Use warm water and rinse intensively. You can also remove any remaining adhesive with a gauze and then rinse with a saline water solution. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 12
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

You Might Also Like

Remove Denture Adhesive from GumsHow toRemove Denture Adhesive from Gums Wear DenturesHow to Wear Dentures Keep Bottom Dentures in PlaceHow toKeep Bottom Dentures in Place Apply Vampire Fangs Without GlueHow to Make Vampire Fangs Stick with Household Items Clean DenturesHow toClean Dentures Eat with DenturesHow toEat with Dentures File Down DenturesHow to Treat Denture Pain until a Dentist Can File Them Clean Partial DenturesHow toClean Partial Dentures Apply DermabondHow toApply Dermabond Apply Tooth GemsHow toApply Tooth Gems Cement a CrownHow toCement a Crown Fix a Lost Dental CrownHow toFix a Lost Dental Crown Get Whiter Teeth at HomeHow toGet Whiter Teeth at Home Clean Dentures With VinegarHow toClean Dentures With Vinegar Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/denture-adhesives
  2. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073946/
  3. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/denture-adhesives
  4. ↑ Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/denture-adhesives
  8. ↑ https://www.dentalhealth.org/denture-cleaning
  9. ↑ Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dentist. Expert Interview
More References (3)
  1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOtBIQ67ET0
  2. ↑ https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/d/dentures-partial
  3. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/denture-adhesives

About This Article

Shayne Guffey, DMD Medically reviewed by: Shayne Guffey, DMD Dentist This article was medically reviewed by Shayne Guffey, DMD. Dr. Shayne Guffey, DMD is a Dentist and the owner of Mountain View Family Dental in Mesa, Arizona. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Guffey specializes in family dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) from Oregon Health & Science University. Additionally, he’s a professional member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. This article has been viewed 164,104 times. 36 votes - 86% Co-authors: 13 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 164,104 Categories: Dentures

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Read More...

Article SummaryX

Before you apply denture adhesive, clean your dentures under running water and pat them dry, which will help the adhesive stick to them. Then, use the tube of adhesive to apply 3-4 small dabs the size of a pencil eraser to the inside surface of your upper denture. Avoid putting the paste too close to the edge of your denture or it will ooze out into your mouth. When you're finished, do the same thing to your lower denture, and place them both in your mouth. To help keep your dentures in place, press them together firmly. If any adhesive oozes out when you press them together, take them out, clean them, and reapply more adhesive. For more advice from our Dental co-author, including how to easily remove your dentures at the end of the day, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Russian Italian French Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 164,104 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Michael Preston

    Michael Preston

    May 17, 2017

    "I was not sure whether to remove dentures at night, but now I will and soak each night. Also I was using to much..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Shayne Guffey, DMD Medically reviewed by: Shayne Guffey, DMD Dentist Co-authors: 13 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 164,104 86% of readers found this article helpful. 36 votes - 86% Click a star to add your vote Michael Preston

Michael Preston

May 17, 2017

"I was not sure whether to remove dentures at night, but now I will and soak each night. Also I was using to much..." more Anonymous

Anonymous

Feb 1, 2018

"Reminding me of the importance of cleaning well at night and soaking with appropriate solution. Thanks." Royce Sartin

Royce Sartin

Aug 20, 2017

"I wanted to know how to remove my upper denture. Thanks to you, now I know. Thanks." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

What Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizImpossible English TestImpossible English TestTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Remove Denture Adhesive from GumsHow toRemove Denture Adhesive from GumsWear DenturesHow to Wear DenturesKeep Bottom Dentures in PlaceHow toKeep Bottom Dentures in PlaceApply Vampire Fangs Without GlueHow to Make Vampire Fangs Stick with Household Items

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?Tell That Your Crush Likes You BackHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You Back100+ Flirty Things to Say to a Girl & Boost Her Self-Esteem100+ Flirty Things to Say to a Girl & Boost Her Self-EsteemCat Sleeping Positions: 22 Common Poses ExplainedCat Sleeping Positions: 22 Common Poses ExplainedSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Emojis Mean Sex?

Watch Articles

Calculate the Volume of a PyramidHow toCalculate the Volume of a PyramidThe Best Way to Exfoliate Your Scalp (Plus, What to Use)The Best Way to Exfoliate Your Scalp (Plus, What to Use)Save Money as a KidHow toSave Money as a KidPolish AluminumHow toPolish Aluminum2 Easy Renter-Friendly Options to Hang Your Window Treatments2 Easy Renter-Friendly Options to Hang Your Window Treatments Insert Slide Numbers in PowerPointHow to Insert Slide Numbers in PowerPoint

Trending Articles

Why Can't I Sleep QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizBe PrettyHow toBe PrettyThe Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign BeautifulThe Most Attractive Zodiac Signs & What Makes Each Sign Beautiful24 Different Types of Bras Explained24 Different Types of Bras Explained Play the Concentrate Game (For A Little Scare!)How to Play the Concentrate Game (For A Little Scare!)What Does Your Rice Purity Score Really Mean?What Does Your Rice Purity Score Really Mean?

Quizzes & Games

How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizTake QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizGrammar TestGrammar TestTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Health
  • Teeth and Mouth Health
  • Tooth Health
  • Dentures
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Let's go! X --636

Tag » How To Apply Denture Adhesive