11 January, 2023

What is a denture reline, and why would you need one? Dentures are common and cost-effective alternatives to dental implants, but they don’t last forever. Check out the permanent dentures cost!

In this post, the dental experts from Smile Bright Dentures explore when and why denture relining could be worth a look.

 

So, What is a Denture Reline?

Relining the dentures involves a simple procedure to correct worn or loose dentures. It restores dentures to their proper sizes or shapes with a literal relining of the material. One example where the process might become necessary is when the gums naturally recede with age.

There are various reasons you might consider a denture reline over other options. The most prominent benefits include the following:

  • Less excess pressure on your soft tissues (and less resulting pain)
  • Less risk of lumps and lesions, as the better fit prevents irritation
  • Less chance of damaging your teeth and dentures
  • More affordable than ordering a new set of dentures

Professionals like Smile Bright Dentures typically offer either a soft or a hard reline. We cover both ways and how to reline denture fittings effectively below.

 

Why You Need Denture Reline?

Dentures are not as durable as implants. Teeth also change due to use or age. When dentures no longer fit correctly, this is a sign they need relining.

In some cases, dentures might even need an entirely new design to ensure the best denture reliner option for more comfortable eating and talking.

The dentist’s procedure will likely include the following:

  • Denture measurements
  • Gum line impressions
  • New denture attachment
  • A final check once the cement hardens

 

What is a Soft Reline For Dentures?

What is a denture reline procedure going to look like? It typically includes local anesthesia in the dentist’s office and takes less than a day to reline dentures. A soft reline suits mild conditions or patients not ready for an entirely new denture fitting.

The bone under a lost or removed tooth may resorb naturally, receding the gums. The jaw will then shift unevenly, resulting in wrinkles in the denture. During the soft relining procedure, the dentist may remove some gum tissue to reshape the bone and align it with the new denture. 

How long does a soft denture reline last? It depends on how quickly the gum and bone ridges normalize. Most patients can expect to repeat this process every couple of years.

 

What is a Hard Reline For Dentures?

The second option involves a hard reline denture, typically for the following reasons:

  • Advanced gum disease
  • A long time relying on dentures
  • Damaged dentures
  • Full replacement

Hard relines take longer because of the affected gums and bone tissue. It involves realigning the jaw’s shape and correcting the denture’s fit. It may last up to five years.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a denture reline?

A denture reline adds or replaces material on the tissue-facing surface of a denture to improve its fit as the mouth changes over time.

2. Why might I need a denture reline?

A reline may be recommended when changes in the gums or underlying bone cause dentures to become loose, uncomfortable, or less stable.

3. What is the difference between a soft and hard denture reline?

A soft reline uses a more flexible material for cushioning, while a hard reline uses a firmer material designed for longer-term support and durability.

4. How long does a denture reline last?

The lifespan varies depending on the type of reline, denture condition, oral changes, and daily use. Your denture professional can advise when it may need replacement.

5. Can a denture reline make loose dentures fit better?

Yes. When the denture itself is otherwise suitable, relining can improve its adaptation to the changing contours of the gums and supporting tissues.

6. Can all dentures be relined?

Many removable full and partial dentures can be relined, but the denture’s condition and fit should be evaluated before treatment.

7. Is a denture reline the same as getting new dentures?

No. A reline modifies the existing denture to improve its fit, while replacement involves creating a new denture.

8. How often should dentures be relined?

There is no fixed schedule. A reline may be considered when changes in your mouth affect the denture’s fit, comfort, or stability.

More About Relining Dentures From Smile Bright Dentures

Are ill-fitting dentures becoming unbearable? Follow up with your dentist on possible solutions like soft or hard relining. A dentist can tell you how to reline a denture, including options that involve reshaping dentures or using additional attachments.

What is a denture reline worth to you? Call Smile Bright Dentures at 425-309-7698 today to find out more.

 

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