Complete dentures remain a common and cost-effective treatment for edentulism, but progressive resorption of the denture-bearing tissues frequently compromises retention, stability, and masticatory efficiency over time, even when the prosthesis was well fabricated at insertion. Denture adhesives are widely used as an adjunctive, non-surgical means of improving the functional seal between the denture base and the oral mucosa. This narrative review synthesises the current evidence on the role of denture adhesives in improving the fit and performance of complete dentures. A structured search of the dental literature was conducted, focusing on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised and controlled clinical trials, and case reports published in the last two decades. The available evidence, including several systematic reviews and meta-analyses, consistently demonstrates that denture adhesives significantly improve denture retention, maximum bite force, and masticatory performance compared with no-adhesive controls, with the greatest benefit observed in patients with resorbed ridges or ill-fitting prostheses. Adhesives also improve patient-reported outcomes, including comfort, confidence, and oral health-related quality of life. Cream and powder formulations appear broadly comparable in efficacy, while cushion and strip formats show more variable results. Safety concerns are largely confined to chronic overuse of zinc-containing adhesives, which has been associated with copper-deficiency myeloneuropathy in rare cases. Denture adhesives are best regarded as an adjunct that enhances a well-constructed prosthesis rather than a substitute for sound prosthodontic technique, and their prescription should be accompanied by clear instructions on quantity, frequency, and hygiene. Clinicians should reserve zinc-free formulations for long-term or heavy users and should periodically reassess the underlying fit of the denture rather than relying indefinitely on adhesive compensation.

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