Maintaining optimal oral health is essential for overall well-being, and for those who wear dentures or dental appliances, special care is necessary. Among the various products available for maintaining dentures and removable oral appliances, Polident is one of the most recognized and trusted names. But what is Polident, exactly? What does it do, and why is it essential for denture wearers?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what Polident is, how it works, who should use it, and how it can benefit individuals with dentures, retainers, or any removable oral device, including those who may have previously worn a brace.
What Is Polident?
Polident is a brand of denture care products manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It includes a range of products such as denture cleansers, adhesives, and overnight soaking solutions. These products are specifically designed to:
- Clean dentures and remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria.
- Help secure dentures firmly in place.
- Minimize gum irritation by promoting better denture fit.
Polident is not meant for cleaning natural teeth but is tailored to meet the unique hygiene needs of those wearing full or partial dentures, as well as retainers and other removable dental appliances.
History of Polident
Polident has been a household name for decades, establishing trust in the dental care market through consistent quality and effectiveness. Originally formulated to address the common concerns of denture wearers—like odor, discomfort, and infection—Polident evolved to include a wide range of solutions for oral appliance hygiene.
Its popularity has grown globally, making it available in most pharmacies and supermarkets across continents. Over the years, the brand has introduced new technologies and formulas, keeping pace with evolving dental science.
Types of Polident Products
To understand what is Polident fully, it’s important to recognize the different types of products available under the brand. Each product addresses a different aspect of denture or oral appliance care.
1. Denture Cleansing Tablets
These are the most well-known Polident products. Available in different formulas (3-Minute, Overnight Whitening, Antibacterial, Smokers, etc.), these effervescent tablets are dissolved in water, and dentures are soaked in the solution.
Benefits include:
- Removal of 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria.
- Elimination of stains and plaque.
- Fresh minty scent that improves oral hygiene.
2. Denture Adhesive Creams
These creams are used to improve the fit of dentures, preventing them from slipping during eating or speaking.
Common variants include:
- Original Adhesive
- Extra Strength
- Free (zinc-free and flavor-free option for sensitive users)
They provide:
- All-day hold
- Protection from food particles getting under the denture
- Comfort and confidence
3. Denture Cleansing Creams and Gels
While less common than tablets, some users prefer a cream cleanser that can be directly applied with a soft brush for scrubbing.
4. Partial Denture Cleansers
Polident also offers solutions specifically designed for partials, as they need a gentler formula to protect the metal clasps or sensitive acrylic materials.
How Does Polident Work?
Denture Cleansing Tablets
When placed in water, Polident tablets release oxygen bubbles that gently but effectively clean the denture. The bubbles help lift debris and bacteria from the appliance’s surface. Most Polident tablets contain ingredients such as:
Sodium bicarbonate and citric acid: Help break down organic debris.
Sodium perborate: Acts as an antibacterial agent.
Potassium monopersulfate: A whitening component.
These ingredients work in synergy to sanitize the denture without causing abrasion or damaging its structure.
Adhesive Creams
Polident adhesives create a thin, elastic layer between the gum and the denture. The layer expands slightly upon contact with saliva, forming a strong seal. This keeps the denture in place, even while chewing hard foods or speaking energetically.
Who Should Use Polident?
Polident is suitable for a variety of users:
1. Full Denture Wearers
Whether upper, lower, or both, full dentures need regular cleaning and sometimes adhesive support. Polident addresses both needs efficiently.
2. Partial Denture Users
Partials require extra care due to their combination of metal and acrylic components. Polident’s partial-specific formulas protect the material while ensuring cleanliness.
3. Retainer Users
Though not a traditional denture, retainers (often worn after brace treatment) also accumulate bacteria and debris. Polident tablets are safe for cleaning most removable retainers—check with a dentist for compatibility.
4. Night Guards and Mouth Guards
Athletes or individuals with bruxism (teeth grinding) use night guards, which also benefit from Polident’s cleaning tablets.
5. Elderly Individuals
Polident is especially beneficial for older adults who may struggle with manual brushing or flossing due to arthritis or mobility issues.
How to Use Polident Products
Using Denture Cleansing Tablets:
Fill a glass with warm (not hot) water.
Drop one tablet into the water.
Place your denture or appliance fully submerged in the solution.
Let it soak for the recommended time (3 minutes to overnight depending on the product).
Rinse thoroughly under running water before wearing.
Using Adhesive Cream:
Clean and dry the denture thoroughly.
Apply a small amount of adhesive in thin strips.
Insert the denture and hold firmly in place.
Avoid eating or drinking for a few minutes to allow the adhesive to set.
Is Polident Safe?
Yes, when used as directed, Polident is considered safe and effective. The brand has passed rigorous testing and meets safety regulations in most countries. However, users should:
- Avoid swallowing the adhesive cream.
- Rinse dentures thoroughly before wearing.
- Do not use in a dry mouth or without a prescription if experiencing gum irritation.
People with allergies or sensitivities should opt for the Polident Free line, which contains no zinc, flavor, or artificial colorants.
Polident vs Other Denture Cleaners
Polident stands out among competitors like Efferdent, Fixodent, and generic brands due to:
- Fast-acting formulas.
- Gentle but powerful cleaning agents.
- A wide range of options for different user needs.
While other brands offer similar benefits, Polident has established a reputation for reliability and innovation.
Can You Use Polident for Braces or Aligners?
While Polident is not intended for fixed braces, it can be used for removable aligners like Invisalign or Essix retainers. These aligners often trap bacteria and develop an odor if not cleaned properly.
Note: Always check with your orthodontist before using any cleanser with your aligners, as some ingredients may degrade the plastic over time.
Common Myths About Polident
1. Polident Can Whiten Natural Teeth
False. Polident is only for cleaning dentures or removable appliances. It does not whiten or clean natural teeth.
2. You Can Use Toothpaste Instead of Polident
False. Toothpaste is too abrasive for denture materials and can scratch the surface, leading to bacteria buildup. Polident is formulated to be non-abrasive.
3. Dentures Don’t Need Daily Cleaning
Also false. Just like natural teeth, dentures must be cleaned daily to prevent oral infections, gum disease, and bad breath.
Conclusion
In summary, what is Polident? It is a vital dental hygiene tool for millions worldwide. Whether you’re wearing full or partial dentures, a retainer after a brace treatment, or a night guard, Polident helps keep your appliance clean, fresh, and effective.
With a legacy of reliability, clinically proven results, and a product range catering to different needs, Polident remains a cornerstone in denture and appliance care. Ensuring proper use of Polident not only improves your oral hygiene but also enhances comfort, reduces the risk of infections, and boosts your overall confidence.
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