In vitro evaluation of denture adhesives: possible efficacy of complex carbohydrates.

The ideal denture adhesive demonstrates a neutral or slightly basic pH, minimal toxicity to the oral mucosa, and satisfactory adhesive bond strength for 12 to 16 hours. Three brands of commercially available denture adhesives (Fixodent Fresh, Procter and Gamble, Cincinnati, OH; Super Poli Grip, Block Drug, Jersey City, NJ; and Super Wernet's, Block Drug, Jersey City, NJ), and a complex mannose carbohydrate (Acemannan, Carrington Laboratories, Irving, TX) were evaluated in vitro to determine significant differences in pH, cytotoxicity, and adhesive bond strength. Super Poli Grip and Super Wernet's remained above the critical pH for hydroxyapatite (pH 6.5) throughout the study, while Acemannan and Fixodent Fresh did not. Fixodent Fresh exhibited significant cytotoxicity to human gingival fibroblasts. Acemannan demonstrated significantly greater overall mean adhesive bond strength in both dry and simulated oral conditions. The generally favorable in vitro performance of the Acemannan material compared to commercially available denture adhesive formulations indicates that complex carbohydrates may be efficacious denture adhesives.