Dentures should fit snugly and comfortably against your gums. If you ever find that your prosthetic feels loose or is causing discomfort due to a poor fit, you might need to get it relined (adjusted). What can you expect during denture relines, and how can you tell if you need one? This blog post explains some basic facts that you should keep in mind.
Do You Need a Reline?
On average, patients need a reline every 1 – 2 years. However, they may be necessary more often if you are fairly new to your prosthetic; changes to the gums and underlying bone tend to happen more rapidly during that time period.
You may need to ask your dentist about a reline if:
- You have been using more adhesive than usual to keep your denture in your mouth.
- Your dentures have become uncomfortable or tend to slip and slide when you are eating and speaking.
- You are experiencing gum sores or other sources of pain related to your dentures.
The Relining Process
A denture reline involves adding material to the base of your denture so that it has a more secure fit. The process is straightforward and usually does not take much time. There are two basic categories of relines:
- A soft reline uses a soft silicone resin material to help your dentures fit better. This type of reline is usually recommended for people with thin or sensitive gums, as well as those who have recently undergone oral surgery. Soft relines can usually be completed in your dentist’s office within an hour or two.
- A hard reline is more durable than a soft reline because, as its name implies, it uses a harder material to adjust the fit of the dentures. Typically, it involves the use of an acrylic that is similar to the dentures’ original base. Your dentist may need a day or two to complete this process. Alternatively, they might send your prosthetic to a nearby laboratory so the technicians there can perform the reline.
The relining process is usually easy for patients. After cleaning your denture, your dentist will sand away any portions of it that are irritating your gums. Then, they will apply resin, which you will bite into in order to create an accurate impression of your mouth. After the resin hardens and any necessary adjustments are made, you can go off and enjoy your more secure smile.
Would you like your dentures to fit better? Ask your dentist if you could benefit from a reline.
Meet the Practice
The experts at Willow Run Dental Association offer a full range of services for patients with missing teeth. Whether you are thinking about getting dentures for the first time, or you have an existing prosthetic that needs to be relined, he would be happy to serve you. To learn more about our team and how we can support your smile, get in touch with our Auburn office at 207-352-2825.