Denture creams that contain zinc have been identified as a potential health risk. A review of the product FAQ sheets for PoliGrip® and Fixodent® would lead anyone to think they are perfectly safe. But a study by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and the Mayo Clinic indicates that these product sheets are misleading because people using the products are developing neurologic disorders.

The study measured high levels of zinc in the products used by their test subjects. The amounts used for even one recommended application are 3.5 times to 7 times the recommended daily intake for women and 2.5 times to 5 times that recommended for men. The concentrations of 17 mg to 34 mg per gram are already higher than the amounts recommended for women (8 mg) and men (11 mg), but one application takes about 1.6 grams of denture cream. If one's dentures need securing a second time during the day, it can cause the user to exceed the toxic levels of zinc set at 80 mg/day.

On the bright side, some of the patients in the study showed some improvement of their neurological damage when they quit using zinc-containing denture creams. But some improvement is not the same as full recovery.

No one should have to worry about suffering the loss of essential neurological functions because they used a product that promotes itself as safe. Zinc toxicity can cause neuropathy that affects sensation or mobility, and causes pain, numbness, pins-and needles sensations or paralysis in arms, hands, legs or feet, or loss of balance when walking. It can affect blood pressure, heart rate, and other autonomic functions such as perspiration, bowel movement, bladder control, and even cognition (mental function.)

If you have experienced any of these symptoms and have used a denture cream containing zinc, switch to a product that does not contain zinc. For more information on your rights as a consumer, and for a free, no-obligation consultation, please contact Schlichter, Bogard & Denton, experienced consumer product attorneys. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses.