American Dental Association Statement on Zinc in Denture Cream

CHICAGO, May 8, 2009—A recent case report describes four case histories of patients who reportedly developed neurological problems, presumably from excessive ingestion of certain denture creams containing zinc. The authors noted that these individuals used excessive amounts of denture creams containing zinc (two or more tubes of denture cream per week for years, when one tube would normally last for 3-10 weeks) and suggested that these individuals might have swallowed large amounts of denture cream over a prolonged period. At this point, the authors agree that this is just a hypothesis. The ADA has no independent knowledge of the facts in these cases.

We are not aware of any reports of neurological problems resulting from use of a denture cream following the manufacturer's instructions, nor indeed of any other reports of neurological or other health problems related to the use of denture cream products under any conditions.

To date, the FDA has not issued any advisory to the public or the profession on this issue.
The subject of this case report should not be confused with another FDA action. In March 2008, the FDA issued a Public Health Notification of adverse health events from serious allergic reactions to a different product: denture cleansers. FDA attributes the reaction to an ingredient called persulfates (a known allergen) and has asked all manufacturers of denture cleansers to modify their labeling to include warning information that the product contains persulfates and recommended improving the directions for use on their labeling in order to reduce misuse.

Patients with loose fitting dentures should see their dentist regularly for examination and appropriate care, which can reduce the need for denture adhesive products.

About the American Dental Association

Celebrating its 150th anniversary, the not-for-profit ADA is the nation's largest dental association, representing more than 157,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public's health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA's state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive. The ADA Seal of Acceptance long has been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The monthly Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) is the best-read scientific journal in dentistry. For more information about the ADA, visit the Association's Web site at www.ada.org

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