Do your dentures seem looser than they used to be? Do they keep slipping out of place when you try to use them to chew your food or speak? If so, you may be in need of a denture reline. This simple procedure involves reshaping the underside of your prosthesis in order to improve the way it fits. What precisely can you expect from a denture reline? Your dentist is here to explain the basics.
Why Might You Need a Denture Reline?
Since your dentures are customized for your unique mouth, the idea that they may one day no longer fit properly might seem strange. However, it’s actually a side effect of what naturally happens when teeth are missing. Without the stimulation that the teeth normally provide, the jawbone will start to be resorbed, deteriorating over time. This ultimately changes the shape of the jaw and the gum line – and thus, also changes how well your dentures fit.
Continuing to wear ill-fitting dentures can lead to all sorts of problems. Not only can your prosthesis slip at awkward moments, but it can rub against your gums, irritating them and causing painful sores to form. On top of that, ill-fitting dentures can increase muscle tension in your jaw, which can ultimately contribute to headaches.
What Happens During Denture Relining?
To reline your dentures, your dentist will add material to the underside that normally rests on the gums. The material will be carefully applied to specific areas to compensate for any changes in your mouth. It may also be used to repair any damage that your dentures have suffered.
If only minor adjustments are needed, your dentist may be able to handle the relining process in-office. But in situations where more significant changes are required, your dentures may need to be sent to a separate dental laboratory.
It’s worth noting that a denture reline can come in two varieties: hard relines and soft relines. Soft relines are performed using softer, more comfortable materials, and they’re often recommended for patients with sore gums. Meanwhile, hard relines involve more durable materials and generally offer longer-lasting results.
Having your dentures relined can go a long way toward ensuring that you’re able to continue relying on your prosthesis to eat, speak, and smile without issue. If you have any reason to suspect that your dentures no longer fit like they should, pick up the phone and give your dentist a call today.
About the Practice
At Blue Coast Dental Group, our dental experts in Torrance are dedicated to bringing our patients a comprehensive menu of dental services that take full advantage of the latest technology. We have multiple ways to replace missing teeth, including lifelike dentures made out of high-quality materials. To schedule a consultation at our office, visit our website or call (310) 424-3100.