Denture Cream Poisoning , the dangerous condition that may arise from the use of denture creams such as Super PoliGrip and Fixodent, is caused by ingesting abnormally high amounts of zinc, a heavy metal. As has been noted in studies, denture creams can contain large quantities of zinc in every tube. With the frequent use of large amounts of these creams over time, the user may ingest excessive, and possibly dangerous levels of his heavy metal. 

The Departments of Neurology and Clinical Sciences at the University of Texas have found zinc poisoning in patients who use large amounts of denture cream.  Zinc poisoning has been proven to have severe and dangerous side effects, and can lead to a serious condition called neuropathy.

A small amount of zinc is necessary for a balanced human diet. However, being exposed to more than 10 times the amount of recommended zinc can result in zinc poisoning. Zinc poisoning can be deadly if not caught and treated quickly.

For healthy adults, the daily recommended amount of zinc ranges between 12 and 15 milligrams. Most people are able to get the necessary amount of zinc naturally, through eating foods which have absorbed zinc. Dietary zinc appears in most multivitamins and also as a plain pill. Doctors are now learning that certain denture creams appear to have high levels of zinc, which can be absorbed through the mouth, possibly leading to zinc poisoning.

Zinc which is found in Denture Creams like Fixodent and Polgrip is considered a heavy metal, which means that it is dense and that relatively low concentrations of zinc in the body may lead to heavy metal poisoning. The symptoms of zinc poisoning are similar to other types of heavy metal poisoning. If left untreated, or if a high level of exposure continues, zinc poisoning can be deadly. Exposure to unhealthy levels of zinc should be limited for all ages.