Abstract

VALLE RODRIGUEZ, Carolina; GODOY RICO, Laura; GARCIA EVANS, Ofelia  and  PRADIES RAMIRO, Guillermo. Adhesives for complete dentures: present situation. RCOE [online]. 2007, vol.12, n.4, pp.273-282. ISSN 1138-123X.

The use of adhesives to improve the hold of complete dentures goes back to the 18th century. Since then, the pharmaceutical industry has introduced different compounds with the aim of providing viscosity and stickiness when absorb water, and in this way improving the retentiveness of removable prosthesis. These adhesives have been composed of rubber, pectins, methylcellulose, hydroxyl-methylcellulose, carboxyl-methylcellulose, sodium-cellulose and synthetic polymers that improve denture support, together with other compounds, such as antimicrobial agents, additives, colourings and preservatives. They have been marketed in different vehicles such as: powder, paste, cream and adhesive cushions. In spite of its wide use among complete denture bearers, dentists have usually maintained a negative attitude on the use and indications of denture adhesives. There is currently a controversy between those who defend its use as a mean to increase complete denture retention and others who still believe that a well done complete denture doesn't require any kind of adhesive, since it should hold by itself. In spite of these controversies the number of adhesive products on the market is increasing and the number of potential users is also on the rise, what makes research in this area of high importance.

Keywords : Adhesive materials; Complete denture; Retention; Stability.

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