The Whole Tooth and Nothing But the Tooth

When wearing dentures, comfort and a secure fit are crucial. Over time, gums and jawbones can change shape, leading to ill-fitting dentures. That's where denture relines come into play. This article offers an in-depth look at denture relines, their importance, types, and the process involved.

What Are Denture Relines?

Denture relines involve resurfacing the underside of a denture with new material. This procedure helps the denture fit more snugly against the gums. It's a common maintenance procedure that ensures dentures remain comfortable and functional over time.

Why Are Denture Relines Important?

As one's mouth naturally changes shape due to aging, weight loss, or medical conditions, dentures can become loose or uncomfortable. Loose dentures can cause irritation, sores, and difficulty eating or speaking. Denture relining addresses these issues by adjusting the denture fit to the changing shape of the gums and jawbone.

Types of Denture Relines

There are three main types of denture relines: hard relines, soft relines, and temporary relines.

• Hard Relines: In a hard reline, the dentist removes some of the plastic from the interior surface of the denture and replaces it with a putty-like material. The denture, with the putty in place, is then fitted back into the mouth, creating an impression of the gums. The denture is then sent to a lab, where the putty is replaced with hard acrylic to match the new shape of the gums.
• Soft Relines: For those with tender gums or sore spots, a soft reline might be recommended. Instead of hard acrylic, a softer, more pliable material is used for the relining. This softer material can be more comfortable for sensitive gums but may need to be replaced more frequently than a hard reline.
• Temporary Relines: If gums are inflamed or sore, a temporary reline may be required. A medicated material is used to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Once the gums have healed, a hard or soft reline can be performed.

The Denture Reline Process

The process for denture relining typically involves a visit to the dentist. The dentist will assess the fit of the dentures and the health of the gums. If a reline is needed, an impression of the mouth will be made using a putty-like material. This impression is then used to create the new lining for the denture.

Denture relines are an essential aspect of maintaining comfortable and well-fitting dentures. By understanding what denture relines are, their importance, the different types, and the process involved, one can ensure that their dentures continue to function optimally.

Remember, while dentures can bring back a confident smile, regular maintenance, including relining, is necessary for long-term comfort and functionality. Whether it's a hard, soft, or temporary reline, this procedure can make a significant difference in the fit and comfort of dentures.

Contact a local company to learn more about denture relines.