FDA Investigation on Denture Adhesive Poisoning

Poisoning from denture creams that contain zinc has been in the focus of officials for quite a period now.

The Academy of General Dentistry has been sending warning signs to dentists nationwide, through a letter entitled “The Tooth about Zinc”.

The US Food and Drug Administration have been receiving several complaints that were linking the zinc poisoning of patients to the use of the denture paste.

The WFAA has been interviewing a patient called Marsha Hill from Irving, who stated that zinc poisoning has impacted very negatively her everyday life. She claims that she finds it difficult to get out of bed and complete her regular tasks.

Zinc is an ingredient that is used by dental cream manufacturing companies, and it is an ingredient which improves the adhesive properties of the cream.

However, officials warn that many denture wearers simply use the product in excess, and by swallowing this excess patients are exposed to zinc poisoning. Neuropathy (or crippling nerve damage) is one of the health problems caused by zinc poisoning.

However, the FDA is not classifying denture adhesives to a higher risk level. They are labeled Class I medical devices, such as band aids are.

The response of director of the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Dr. Jeff Shoren was that dental adhesive manufacturers are agreeing to replace the zinc as main ingredient with safer ingredients.

Many companies have already taken out zinc from the ingredients lists, bringing thus to the market zinc-free products.

Dr Shuren further states that a decision on whether to send out regulations for companies to completely take out the ingredient has not been made yet. However, the FDA and several manufacturers continue to receive medical injury cases asking for a solution.