As you age, the shape of the jaw and gums undergoes subtle changes that can affect the way your dentures fit. Denture relining involves adjusting the base part of the dentures to make them fit more comfortably. Here is what to expect from denture relining.

What Steps Are Involved in Denture Relining?

The first step in denture relining is for a dental technician to remove some plastic material from the base of the denture. Next, the technician places a layer of mouldable material onto the denture base and asks you to bite down on the dentures to create an accurate impression of the shape of your gums. The technician can then make a new denture base using this impression, which should be a perfect fit.

Why Do Dentures Need Relining?

Ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort and even injury to the soft tissues of the mouth. Loose dentures can also slip around when you eat and talk, leading to social difficulties and trouble eating in public. Denture relining is likely to make your life a lot easier and reduce your dependence on denture adhesives to achieve a secure fit. As a result, it can also save you money in the long run.

Denture relining also has an important oral hygiene benefit. Food can become trapped underneath poorly fitting dentures, where it acts as an energy source for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Getting your dentures relined can help to keep your mouth cleaner throughout the day, reducing your risk of oral health problems.

Soft vs Hard Denture Relining

Dental technicians can use two different types of material to reline dentures. The first is a soft and flexible type of silicone, which feels very comfortable but is not as durable as a harder base. Soft denture relines typically have to be redone every year. On the other hand, hard denture relines can last for many years without needing any further maintenance.

Many people choose to use a soft denture lining in their lower jaw, where irritation caused by dentures is more common, and a hard denture lining in the upper jaw. If you are not sure which option is right for you, ask your dentist for advice.

Denture Rebasing

Denture relining should not be confused with rebasing, which means replacing the denture base in full. This procedure is not as common as denture relining and can take a little longer to complete.

Contact a clinic like North Shore Denture Clinic to learn more.