general information
Despite modern technologies in the field of orthopedic dentistry, dentures cause many unpleasant moments in everyday life. To eliminate the problem of discomfort, special gaskets were created to ensure comfort during constant use of the denture apparatus.
Spacers for dentures are a special means that fixes this structure on soft tissues. Thanks to this layer, food particles do not get between the gum and the denture. They also perform many other vital functions. For example, they prevent the development of irritation and inflammation, and also guarantee 100% comfort and ease of use.
Dental protective dams are made of thin and soft materials impregnated with special substances. All of them are hypoallergenic and have a strong hold. Most often it includes:
- viscose or polypropylene fiber;
- sodium alginate;
- carboxymethylcellulose;
- petrolatum.
The retainers hold well and securely on the jaw without creating any problems. They do not destroy the oral mucosa and do not rub the gums. Such compositions have porosity and elasticity. The product is not affected by contact with liquid. Retainers will be a real godsend for patients with increased salivation. Instructions for their use are presented in the video below:
Advantages and disadvantages
Removable dentures perform all the necessary functions, just like natural teeth. During use, it turns out that artificial materials often rub and irritate the mucous membranes, leading to an inflammatory process in the soft tissues of the oral cavity. Most patients note that this design does not hold securely enough and can fall out of the mouth.
For this purpose, gaskets were invented for fixing dentures. They ensure reliable use of such structures for a long time, since they have many advantages:
- strong and reliable fixation on the upper and lower jaws for 8-12 hours, even on deformed gums, since the material is elastic;
- previous level of bite height;
- the oral mucosa and gums remain protected from various damage and inflammation;
- the ability to use pads daily with external medical products;
- with everyday use, side effects are excluded;
- have a positive effect on the process of atrophy of the alveolar processes and various anatomical dysfunctions of the jaw and gums.
The main advantages also include ease of use. However, a guarantee of reliable and comfortable use of products will be compliance with several main rules. The most important of these concerns the cleanliness of the prosthesis. It is necessary to regularly remove dirt and dry the gaskets. In this state, they will be comfortably fixed and fit to the surfaces of the prosthesis and jaw. Clean and free of contaminants, they will not cause unwanted effects.
Lower jaw spacers
In addition to the advantages, such dental products also have two disadvantages. Sometimes an allergic reaction to the composition may occur. In such a situation, you need to remove the product and go to your dentist. The second drawback is the high cost (from 290 to 320 rubles per pack of 30 pieces). But good health and reliable fixation of dentures are worth it.
How to use correctly
The quality of fixation of a structure depends not only on its type, but also on compliance with the rules of use. In order for the structure to be securely held in the oral cavity, it is necessary:
- Apply the cloth only to the cleaned process.
- the protective film from both sides at once.
- Choose the right size.
- Place the fabric on the prosthesis, not the gum.
- Avoid the occurrence of air gaps during installation.
- After applying the pad, do not eat for 15 minutes.
Indications and contraindications
According to dentists, retaining pads should be worn until you get used to dentures. They are indicated for many patients with the following problems:
- uncomfortable wearing of dentures due to the non-standard structure of the jaw;
- inflammation, irritation in the gum area, mucous membrane, as well as atrophy of the alveolar processes due to allergies after taking medications, mechanical stress;
- age-related gum deformation;
- incorrect bite and poor pronunciation, changes in the chewing function of the jaw;
- manifestation of increased salivation.
gaskets for upper jaw
Taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, even the most effective pads can cause an allergic reaction. This is due to intolerance to the substances contained in dental products.
Purpose of spacers for dentures
The use of removable dentures is clear and necessary if the patient is missing a number of teeth. It is also important to know that in this position, the installation of bridges, inlays and crowns is impossible. There are two problems with this type of prosthetics:
- it is not always possible to ensure reliable fastening;
- food gets under the prosthesis.
Such problems may disappear if you use fixing pads. They contribute to:
- adjustment of bite height;
- protection of the mucous membrane from mechanical damage.
Due to the unique structure of the human jaw, as well as changes in the structure of the gums due to injury or age, it is unrealistic to ensure a tight fit of the dentures to the topography of the oral cavity. Full use of such prostheses requires the presence of a thin intermediate layer.
Protefix and Fittident: differences between analogues
Dental dams help most people avoid many problems during the period of adaptation to dentures. Manufacturers began to produce modern models of excellent quality. The most popular companies that manufacture the highest quality products will help you cope with problems when wearing artificial structures in the oral cavity. These are two brands - “Protefix” and “Fittident”.
Only these two manufacturers are represented in our country. Their products are sold in a network of pharmacies, so you can buy them without any problems.
The most common brand for many users is Protefix. The fixing gaskets from this manufacturer have been of high quality for many years. The company uses absorbent material to produce its products. When moisture gets on the canvas, a gel-like cushion forms on its surface. It prevents friction of the prosthesis.
Among the advantages of the Protefix brand product, the following main functions can be identified:
- strong fixation;
- excellent compatibility with artificial structures;
- reliable protection against inflammation and mechanical stress.
When worn, this model absorbs the artificial structure during various movements of the jaw and serves as protection against chafing. Strong fixation lasts for 8 hours. The elasticity of the material allows the use of models even with abnormal structure of the dental arch. To secure the product, you must first try on the appropriate size and then remove the excess edges by cutting off the strips. Then the lining is immersed in water for 10 seconds and excess moisture is allowed to drain. After this, they are evenly distributed over the entire surface of the wet denture and tightly fixed to the gums.
The models are distinguished by increased fixation. This is not affected by the amount of saliva produced or the fluid in the mouth. A denture with such pads stays in place well all day. The soft composition of the material is suitable even for patients with inflamed gums and ulcers on the oral mucosa. With such a substrate you can use rinses, gels and ointments, since they will not affect the composition of the material. The minimum thickness of the fibers does not create discomfort, so using pads does not cause much trouble.
To secure them, you need to remove the special film from both sides and apply it to a dry prosthesis. To fix the Fittident gaskets on the structure, just squeeze the jaws tightly.
Dentists suggest, in addition to gaskets, also using a combination of special creams and gels designed to fix dentures. Many therapeutic agents help speed up the healing of soft tissues after injury from an artificial structure.
Principle of applying cream
Kinds
Orthodontic pads help eliminate not only physical discomfort, but also mental discomfort. Patients who are faced with the need to wear removable structures for a long time for the first time find it difficult to get used to a foreign object. Dental dams greatly help ease the adaptation period. Among them there are two types: “Protefix” and “Fittident”.
Each of them has its own characteristics and disadvantages. The choice depends largely on the type of prosthesis.
Protefix
Dental dams of this brand are distinguished by the presence of a special material. After moisture gets in, a gel-like cushion forms on the canvas. This largely prevents the dentures from rubbing against the mucous membrane while talking or chewing food. Distinctive features:
- Can be used during gum treatment
- Does not affect the effect of medicinal ointments.
- Can be used simultaneously with medicinal gels or creams.
Rules for caring for removable dentures made of plastic
Among the main functions are reliable fixation and compatibility with temporary structures. In addition, Protefix dental dams protect the mucous membrane from mechanical damage or the development of inflammation.
In order to install the canvas, you need to follow the algorithm of actions. Need to:
- Prepare a gasket of the required size.
- Place in a glass of warm water for no more than 10 seconds and then remove.
- Moisten the denture.
- After removing excess liquid from the glass gasket, attach it to the structure. At the same time, leave 2 mm free from the back.
- Using your fingers, press and smooth from the middle to the edge.
- Install the prosthesis.
The use of Protefix dental dams allows you to securely fix the structure and avoid discomfort. They are not only convenient and easy to use.
Fittydent
Fittident dental dams allow you to secure the denture for up to 12 hours. Due to the presence of various substances in their composition, they absorb moisture and transform into a gel.
Often used in cases where the patient suffers from increased salivation. The surface of the pads is quite soft and protects the mucous membrane from various inflammations, mechanical damage and irritation.
The main components are petrolatum, which retains moisture, hydroxypropylcellulose to provide viscosity, and sodium carboxymethylcellulose is used as a thickener. The main functions of Fittident dental dams are:
- High-quality fixation for a long time.
- Protection of the mucous membrane from the development of the inflammatory process, the occurrence of microcracks, wounds and erosion.
- Possibility of use together with medications . At the same time, the dental dam does not lose its properties.
- No negative effects of moisture.
Learn more about how to treat sore gums under dentures
The patient also notes a feeling of naturalness and a feeling of comfort. This is achieved by the small thickness of the canvas.
In order to install the gasket on the prosthesis, you must:
- Rinse thoroughly and then dry.
- the protective on all sides .
- Place a dental lining on the inside of the denture. It is very important that there are no air gaps between the surfaces.
- Carefully trim off excess fabric.
- Place the structure in the mouth and press on it for 20 seconds.
You can eat food after installation within 20 minutes. But the use of “Fittident” is not recommended for patients with malocclusion or abnormal jaw structure.
Patient reviews
All these dental devices make the life of many people much easier who are forced to use dentures for various reasons. They provide tight fixation of artificial teeth. Some patients have long begun to use fixing pads to feel more confident and comfortable.
My dentist recommended wearing spacers after getting dentures. I took the advice right away and did the right thing. While wearing them, I have not yet had any problems with artificial teeth.
Konstantin, Tula
Protefix can be trusted because the company has long established itself in this segment. I have been using their products for several years. For care I use special tablets that perfectly clean artificial teeth. Comfortable at work and at home, no inconvenience until late in the evening.
Anna, Vologda
My friend first discovered these products.
Then she advised me to buy them. I tried various fixing creams, but they didn’t work for me. The pads are very simple and easy to use. However, the most important thing is that they are very reliable and will not let you down in any situation. Valentina, Samara