Seven tips for safer denture cleaning

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that 73 adverse events, including at least one death, have been linked to an ingredient in denture cleansers. The ingredient, persulfate (a known allergen), is used in these cleansers as part of the cleaning and bleaching process. Some reactions may be due to product misuse, but some have also occurred when the product was used properly.

FDA is recommending that manufacturers of denture cleansers revise their labeling and consider using appropriate alternatives to persulfates. These products are for cleaning dentures in a container--they should never be used while the dentures are in your mouth. Current labeling, however, can mislead consumers into believing the products may be chewed, gargled or swallowed.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: irritation, tissue damage, rash, hives, gum tenderness, breathing problems, and low blood pressure.

Symptoms from product misuse may include: abdominal pain, bleaching of tissue, blood in the urine, breathing problems, burns, damage to the esophagus, internal bleeding, low blood pressure, seizures, and vomiting.

Who's at risk? People who are allergic to persulfates. All denture cleanser users should be aware that an allergic reaction might occur not only soon after the first use of the product but also after many years of use. Some symptoms might not appear for several minutes or even hours, and reactions may become more frequent and severe with repeated use of the product. People who are unable to read or understand the product label are at risk for product misuse.

If you or someone you care for uses denture cleansers be sure to:

• Read all instructions carefully.
• Never chew, swallow, or gargle with denture cleansers; Use the cleansers only by placing them in a container with the dentures.
• Always thoroughly rinse dentures and other dental appliances before placing in your mouth.
• Remember that reactions might not occur right away.
• If symptoms do occur, remove dentures and contact your dentist.
• Ask your dentist about using an alternate method to clean dentures.
• Keep all denture cleansers out of children's reach.

For more information, read the FDA alert.

--Desiree Calamari, Associate Web Editor

—Aaron Bailey