Dental Relines: What Exactly Goes on in This Procedure
Denture relines are procedures where the underside of a denture is reshaped so that it fits more comfortably on the user’s gums. This is necessary as dentures can lose their grip over time and must be relined periodically. The process is usually affordable and often takes very little time.
This process also adds new material to the inside of the denture to make it fit better and replace any broken or missing parts. When a tooth is extracted, the bone that was once around the tooth root starts to break down. The body reuses the resources sent to the bone since it doesn’t need to surround a tooth.
The removal of teeth alters the shape of the jaw and gums, which leads to a poor fit for dentures. Over time, the fit becomes worse, and the dentures may eventually fall off. A reline helps to improve the fit of the dentures.
Essentially, if only a small adjustment to the fit of your dentures is necessary, your dentist will likely be able to reline them in the office. However, if bigger changes are needed, the dentures will have to be sent to a laboratory, and you will have to go without them for a few days.
Dentures that don’t fit properly can be fixed during the relining process, saving you money in the long run. Consistent oral care is important for overall health, so getting your dentures relined regularly is a good idea.
There are two types of relining, referred to as soft and hard. With either type, a denture reline can be done at a dentist’s office or in a lab. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
The Two Kinds of Denture Relines
When choosing, patients can opt for either a soft reline or a hard reline:
- Soft: A soft denture reline is a type of liner made from a soft, pliable material. This type of relining is used to help improve the fit of a denture and to make the denture more comfortable to wear.
This procedure is done in an office and does not require the dentures to be sent to a lab. They are usually very quick and do not require as much time as a hard reline. However, because the material used for a soft reline is not as durable, it will usually need to be relined more often than a hard reline.
If you have sensitive gums or are new to dentures, a soft denture reline is probably the best option.
- Hard: On the other hand, a hard reline is more durable than a soft reline. The process is the same, but hard relines often last longer and can be done in the office or lab.
Dentists recommend using a lab because the quality of the materials used is often better than what is available over the counter. However, hard relining can be uncomfortable for patients with sensitive gums. In those cases, hard relines may lead to sore spots.
If you don’t have sensitive gums and you’ve been using dentures for a while, a hard denture reline might be a better choice.
Schedule Denture Relines Today
Book your appointment today at Weymouth Dental Arts if you need denture relines determined and done by a professional. Our clinic provides patients of all ages customized care for general, cosmetic, and modern dentistry. Visit our website today and learn more!