The Oral Health Foundation has published updated guidelines on denture cleaning and adhesive use to help dental professionals provide consistent advice to patients amid concerns about conflicting information on routine care.
The revised guidelines address cleaning products, adhesive application and when patients should seek a dental review, with accompanying quick-reference graphics designed for use in consultations.
The cleaning recommendations cover daily brushing and soaking, the suitability of different cleaning products and care of remaining natural teeth in patients with partial dentures.
They also address overnight denture removal, where clinically appropriate, and recommend regular dental reviews, ideally at least annually.
The adhesive guidelines clarify the role of creams in improving the retention and comfort of well-fitting dentures, while emphasising that they should not be used to compensate for poor fit.
An increasing need for adhesive to maintain denture stability is identified as a reason for patients to seek a dental review.
The foundation also notes that most of the evidence on adhesives relates to creams used with complete dentures. For partial denture wearers, advice should be tailored to the individual, with particular attention to protecting remaining natural teeth and keeping the denture clean.
Dr Rachael England, head of policy and advocacy at the Oral Health Foundation, said: ‘Looking after dentures is an important part of looking after someone’s health. But patients can be unsure how to clean them properly or whether they should use an adhesive.
‘Dental teams, pharmacists and GPs all have opportunities to offer advice and help patients recognise when they need a dental appointment. These updated guidelines give them clear, practical messages to share.’
The review was supported by an educational grant from Haleon and involved a panel comprising Andrea Johnson, chair and chief executive of Den-Tech, Delroy Reeves, dental technician, liaison delegate and former president of the Dental Technologists Association, and Dr England.
The Oral Health Foundation is encouraging dental practices, pharmacies and GP teams to use the resources and share them with colleagues working in care homes.
Christabel Fowler, global oral health medical and scientific affairs lead at Haleon, said: ‘The updated guidelines and quick-reference graphics will help health professionals explain cleaning and adhesive use clearly, and support patients and carers in knowing when to seek dental advice.’
The guidelines on denture care and denture adhesives, along with accompanying graphics, are available at the Oral Health Foundation website.