How can I stop gagging with my new denture and adhesives? I got new upper and lower dentures in early October. Whenever I wear the upper denture, I either gag from the denture or the adhesive. I still gag whether I use adhesive cream, strips, powder, or gel. My dentist says I should try different brands, but I am exhausted and can’t chew my food. I got dentures so I could eat again, not choke. How can I control gagging? Thank you. Sergey from IL
Sergey,
Thank you for your question. We understand your disappointment with receiving a denture that creates more concerns than it resolves.
Many people struggle with an active gag reflex while getting dental care or wearing dentures. We are concerned because your denture is new, and it seems you need adhesive to secure it. A new denture should fit well and not require adhesives. Dr. Finely, Dr. Thompson, or Dr. Coughran would need to examine your denture and mouth to identify why you are gagging. Still, we will offer insight into how a dentist can improve your experience with dentures.
How Can You Control Gagging from New Dentures and Adhesives?
You can control the gagging from new dentures and adhesives by asking your dentist to check your denture fit. Your dentist can do the following:
- Verify whether your denture is too loose and causing you to gag
- Determine why your denture fit makes you feel that you need adhesives
- Determine whether the top of the denture against the roof of your mouth is triggering your gag reflex
After identifying the cause of your gagging, your dentist can adjust your denture fit or recommend a palateless denture that does not trigger your gag reflex.
What Is a Palateless Denture?
Palateless upper denture
A palateless denture is a denture attached to dental implants. Unlike a removable upper denture that covers the roof of your mouth to create suction and keep it in place, a palateless denture leaves the roof of your mouth (palate) uncovered. A snap-on denture is an affordable option for stabilizing a denture with dental implants.
Researchers reviewed articles on implant overdentures published from 1991 to 2011. The studies show that implant dentures produce predictable results, including.
- Enhanced stability
- Improved function
- A high degree of satisfaction compared to removable dentures
How Does a Snap-On Denture Work?
A snap-on denture works by attaching it to dental implants. An implant dentist or oral surgeon can surgically place implants through your gums and jawbone. After the implants fuse with your bone, the dentist will make a custom denture with a base that snaps onto the implants. If you have experienced jawbone shrinkage, you may need bone grafting before you get dental implants.
The benefits of a snap-on denture include:
- It keeps the roof of your mouth uncovered to prevent gagging
- Dental implants keep it in place and eliminate the need for denture adhesives
- It will fit and feel better than a removable denture
- You can eat comfortably
Get a second opinion if your dentist cannot resolve your concerns about gagging with your new denture. Schedule a consultation with an implant dentist to discuss your options for a denture that fits well and relieves your gagging.
Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post.
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