Excessive Use of Zinc-containing Denture Creams

Detailed clinical and laboratory data for each patient were compiled. Tubes of denture adhesives were analyzed for zinc content using dynamic reaction cell-inductively coupled Ultrasonic toothbrush plasma-mass spectrometry. Patients received copper supplementation. Copper and zinc levels were obtained post-treatment at varying intervals.

Millions of people use denture cream (also known as denture adhesive). Some, but not all, denture creams contain zinc. A few recent case reports in the scientific literature indicate a possible association between excessive use of zinc-containing denture creams and neurological and hematological problems. In each situation, the patients had ill-fitting dentures and reported using excessive amounts of denture cream with zinc for years. Several people reported using two or more tubes of denture cream per week for years, when one tube would normally last for 3-10 weeks, when used as directed.

The authors theorize that the patients probably swallowed excess denture cream, and that over years of use, zinc may have built up in these Dental loupes individual’s bodies. It is well documented that swallowing excessive amounts of zinc can raise blood levels of zinc which can lead to lower blood levels of copper. The lower blood level of copper can then lead to neurological and hematological problems.

More information is needed to determine if there is a cause and effect relationship. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not issued an advisory or recall of zinc-containing denture creams at this time. As of Feb. 19, 2010, Glaxo Smith Kline, a major manufacturer of denture cream, voluntarily decided, as a precautionary measure, to stop using zinc in the following denture cream brands: Super Poligrip Original, Super Poligrip Ultra Fresh and Super Poligrip Extra Care.

The ADA recommends that a dentist examine a child within six months after the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. A dental visit at an early age is a “well-baby checkup” for the teeth. Besides checking for tooth decay and other problems, the dentist can show you how to clean the child’s teeth properly and how to evaluate any adverse habits such as thumbsucking. When teeth first come in, some babies may have sore or tender gums. Gently rubbing your child’s gums with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon or a wet gauze pad can be soothing. You can also give the baby a clean teething ring to chew on. If your child is still cranky and in pain, consult your dentist or physician. Most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the time they are 3.

Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. This February, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) encourages parents and caregivers to “Get it Done in Year One.” Visiting a pediatric dentist by the time the first baby tooth appears Dental loupes enables the child to begin a lifetime of preventive dental care, helping to minimize tooth decay and cavities. In fact, studies show that dental costs for children who have their first dental visit before age one are 40 percent lower in the first five years than for those who do not see a dentist prior to their first birthday.

The ADA advises denture wearers to see their dentist if their dentures do not fit well or if they have questions about the use of dental cream. Dental examinations and appropriate care can reduce the need for denture adhesive products.Welcome to http://www.zeta-dental.com.au/ buy dental equipment.