Is your denture a bit loose or uncomfortable? Perhaps your denturist has recommended a reline. But “What is a reline of dentures?” you may wonder.
In this guide, we’ll look at what denture relining is, why you need a denture reline, the types of relines available, and a comparison of DIY versus professional relines.
Key Takeaways:
- Denture relining is the process of reshaping your denture to make it more functional and comfortable.
- The most common relines include soft, hard, and rebase denture relines.
- Improved comfort, enhanced stability, and better aesthetics and nutrition are some key benefits of denture relining.
Table of Contents
What is Denture Relining?
Denture relining is a dental procedure used to adjust the fit of dentures so they feel more comfortable and secure in the mouth. An extra layer of material is applied on the inside surface of your denture to either conform to your current jaw and gum structure or repair parts of the denture.
Reasons For a Denture Reline
The primary reasons for denture relines include:
- Natural Changes in Jawbone and Gums — As you age, your jawbone can shrink, altering how dentures fit.
- Weight Loss or Gain — Significant changes in body weight can affect facial structure. facial structure.
- Post-Dental Surgery Recovery — After tooth extractions or oral surgery, swelling reduces over time impacting denture fit.
- Improving Comfort and Fit — Relining helps eliminate discomfort caused by ill-fitting dentures, preventing sores and irritation.
Types of Relines
Hard Reline
A hard reline involves resurfacing the denture with a material similar to the original denture base, making it more stable and durable. This type of reline is recommended every two years for full denture wearers and can be completed in a dental office or a dental lab.
Soft Reline
For patients experiencing tender gums and sore spots from their dentures, a soft reline can offer a more comfortable solution. This procedure uses a softer, more pliable material that stays flexible for one to two years and provides cushioning against the gums.
Rebase Reline
Rebasing is a more extensive form of relining where the entire denture base material is replaced, but the existing teeth are kept. This is usually required when the denture base is old or damaged. A rebase is similar to getting a new denture but retains the original teeth layout.
Benefits of Denture Relining
1. Improved Comfort
Relining adjusts the denture base to fit the new contours of the gums, reducing irritation and discomfort.
2. Enhanced Stability and Security
A proper reline helps secure the dentures snugly against the gums, improving stability and making it easier to speak clearly and eat comfortably.
3. Prevention of Oral Health Issues
Ill-fitting dentures can cause various oral health problems, including sores, infections, and bone loss due to uneven pressure on the gums and jawbone. Relining helps distribute the pressure more evenly, promoting better oral health.
4. Extended Lifespan of Dentures
Regular relining can extend the functional lifespan of a denture. By maintaining a good fit, you reduce wear and tear on both the denture and your oral tissues, delaying the need for complete denture replacement.
5. Better Nutrition
With well-fitting dentures, you can chew food more effectively. This not only makes eating more enjoyable but also improves nutrition and overall physical health.
6. Cost-Effective Maintenance
Relining is a relatively inexpensive way to update the fit of dentures, compared to the cost of creating new custom dentures.
7. Aesthetic Benefits
Well-fitting dentures maintain the natural shape of your face, supporting the lips and cheeks and preventing the sunken facial appearance often associated with aging and tooth loss.
DIY vs Professional Relines
Some denture wearers may consider DIY denture reline kits as a cost-effective solution. These kits are available over the counter and can range in cost from $15 to $50. However, there are significant differences between DIY and professional relines:
Professional relines are customized precisely to your mouth’s shape by a dentist, ensuring a perfect fit. DIY kits may not offer the same level of comfort or fit.
Materials used in professional relines are generally of higher quality and last longer. DIY relining materials are meant to be temporary or only for emergencies.
Improperly relined dentures can cause increased irritation and sores or become irreparable if done incorrectly. Professional relines minimize these risks by ensuring the denture is repaired correctly.
While DIY kits are cheaper upfront, they may require frequent replacements. Professional relines can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability.
Reline Your Denture at Premier Dentures
For a comfortable and good-fitting denture that gives you the confidence to smile, call Premier Dentures. Our denture reline service is convenient and fast, taking only a day to get your device back to a more secure and snug fit. Call our office to set up your appointment.
