What Is a Denture Reline?

A denture reline is a dental procedure used to resurface the side of a denture that makes contact with the soft tissues in the mouth, particularly the gums. Over time, your mouth naturally changes shape due to bone resorption, which often follows tooth loss, thus changing the fit of dentures. This can cause dentures to become loose, uncomfortable, or even painful. A reline is designed to adjust the fit of the denture by adding new material to its fitting surface, thereby ensuring better comfort, functionality, and stability.

Why Is Denture Relining Necessary?

Adapting to Changes in Mouth Structure

As time progresses, the shape and size of your jawbone will likely change due to bone loss after tooth extraction. These changes cause the denture that once fit perfectly to become loose or uncomfortable. Without an adequate fit, dentures can cause irritation, sores, or make eating and speaking difficult. Relining restores the fit and function, adapting the denture to the current contours of your gums and jawbone.

Preventing Oral Health Issues

Ill-fitting dentures can lead to a range of oral health issues, including gum irritations, mouth sores, and infections. By realigning the fit of the denture, the risk of these concerns is significantly reduced, allowing for an overall healthier oral environment.

Improving Comfort and Confidence

Loose dentures can slip or make it difficult to chew and speak. A reline enhances stability and comfort, restoring confidence in daily activities. This procedure helps ensure that dentures remain functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Types of Denture Relines

Hard Reline

A hard reline involves the dental professional removing a layer from the interior surface of the denture and replacing it with a hard resin. This type of reline provides a firm fit and is a long-term solution. It is often more permanent compared to a soft reline and involves sending the denture to a laboratory for the relining process.

Soft Reline

A soft reline uses a pliable material that remains pliable after application, providing a cushion-like fit to the surfaces contacting the gums. This type of reline is particularly useful for patients who experience tender or sore gums. Soft relines offer increased comfort and are typically quicker to perform than hard relines. However, they may need replacing more frequently.

Temporary Reline

A temporary reline is often used when gums are inflamed and sore. The material used in a temporary reline will protect the gums and provide relief while healing or adjustment occurs. It is not a permanent solution but more of a preparatory step before another type of reline or a new denture fitting.

Process of Denture Relining

1. Initial Consultation

   • The process begins with a consultation. During this visit, your dentist will assess the fit of your dentures and examine the condition of your gums. This step determines the type of reline needed.

2. Selection of Reline Type

   • Based on the examination, your dentist will recommend either a hard, soft, or temporary reline. This step is crucial in addressing specific comfort and health needs.

3. Preparation

   • For hard and soft relines, the dentist will need to remove a small amount of existing material from the inside of the dentures, taking proper impressions to ensure a snug fit.

4. Application

   • The chosen relining material is then applied to the denture. For hard relines, the denture might need to be sent to a lab, extending the time before you can wear them again.

5. Adjustment and Fitting

   • Once the reline material has set or the denture has returned from the lab (in the case of a hard reline), the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.

6. Final Checkup

   • A follow-up appointment might be scheduled to ensure the new fit is good and no discomfort is present.

Benefits of Denture Relines

• Improved Fit: This is the most immediate benefit. Relining ensures that dentures continue to function properly as the contours of your mouth change.
• Enhanced Comfort: Better fitting dentures mean less irritation and more comfort, even when they are worn for long periods of time.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to getting whole new dentures, relining is a more economical solution.
• Prolongs Denture Life: By maintaining good care and regular relining, dentures can last longer, thus preserving your investment in them.

Common Misconceptions:

• Relines Are Unnecessary: Some believe that once they have dentures, no further adjustments are needed. Given the changes in jaw structure over time, relines are indeed necessary for continued comfort.
• Relining is Expensive: While there are costs involved, they are typically less than the expense of replacing an entire set of dentures.
• Relines Are Inconvenient: Many believe that the process is lengthy and inconvenient. Depending on the type, a reline can often be completed in one or two office visits, making it convenient enough for most schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my dentures relined? It's generally recommended to have a reline every few years, depending on how quickly changes occur in your jawbone and gums. However, your dentist will provide the best personalized recommendation.

Will my dentist perform the reline in-office? It depends on the type of reline chosen. Soft relines can often be handled in-office, while hard relines may require sending the denture to a lab.

Will a reline change the appearance of my dentures? The reline procedure primarily affects the fit of the dentures. Any changes to appearance are usually minimal and often are positive, as better fit can enhance the denture's natural appearance when smiling and speaking.

When to Consider a Denture Reline

• If you experience persistent soreness or irritation
• Noticeably loose-fitting dentures
• Difficulty while eating or speaking
• Regularly experiencing sore spots or pain
• Changes in oral tissues that affect fit

Additional Tips for Denture Care

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits to monitor the fit and overall health of your dentures and gums.
• Daily Cleaning: Clean your dentures daily to prevent any bacterial growth and keep them in good condition.
• Handle with Care: Ensure you remove dentures carefully and store them in an appropriate solution to maintain their fit and appearance.

In conclusion, a denture reline plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity, comfort, and function of dentures over time. As natural changes occur in your mouth, this procedure ensures continued oral health and quality of life for denture wearers. For personalized advice and a comprehensive evaluation, consult a dental professional about the best relining options for your unique needs.