If
your dentures aren't fitting like they used to, it may be time to
consider denture relining. Denture relining is a process that your
dentist can use to provide a new, more comfortable fit for your
existing dentures without replacing them. Here is an overview of
denture relining so that you know what to expect from the procedure
and can have an informed conversation with your dentist.
Relining
Procedure
Denture
relining is usually a simple procedure that can be completed in less
than an hour. When you visit your dentist, he or she will first
examine your mouth to assess the level of irritation that is present.
If significant sores or swelling is present from the poorly fitting
dentures, the dentist may recommend a temporary reline while your
mouth heals and allow you to return later for the permanent reline.
To
perform a permanent reline, your dentist will first clean your
dentures and sand away a small amount of material on the denture
plate. After removing material in areas that are causing
uncomfortable contact with your mouth, the dentist will then apply
the soft or hard relining resin to the dentures. You will place the
dentures back in your mouth and bite down gently to make an
impression in the resin. Once the resin hardens, the reline is
complete.
Soft
Relining
Soft
relining resin is one of two optional materials for use in denture
relining. This resin is made of silicone and creates a softer, more
comfortable base for the denture. Soft relining is the best choice
for people with thin or especially sensitive gums, as there is less
chance that irritation will develop in the future.
The
downside of soft relining is that because the material is softer, it
is also less durable than the original denture or hard relining
resin. This means that you will require more frequent visits for
relining than if you choose to use hard resin. Soft relines are a
better choice for older patients who usually have thinner gums and
more advanced recession of the gums and other tissues in the mouth.
Hard
Relining
Hard
relining is the standard for denture relining, as it is both
long-lasting and comfortable for all but the most sensitive gums.
Hard relining resin is made from acrylic that is similar in
composition to the original acrylic of your dentures. With hard
denture relines, you shouldn't expect to need your dentures relined
more often than every one to two years.
The
only potential drawback of hard denture relines is that they cannot
always be completed on the day of your visit. While your dentist may
be able to apply the reline, take an impression of your mouth, and
harden the relining putty in one sitting, he or she may choose to
send the impression to a dental laboratory for development. This will
leave you without your dentures for a few days but is sometimes
necessary to ensure the hard resin fits perfectly.
Relining
Benefits
Denture
relining resolves a number of issues that you may think would require
replacement of your dentures. Sores, irritation, and general
discomfort are the primary reasons that many patients consider
relining. You may find that it is easier to chew with your relined
dentures, and relining can also resolve slurs, lisps, and other
speech difficulties caused by improper denture fit. Relining is also
less expensive than an entirely new set of dentures.
Even
if you maintain a perfect oral health routine, the shape of your
mouth will change over time. Denture relining is the best way to
update an old set of dentures so that they fit comfortably throughout
your life. If your dentures don't fit like they used to, Gregory
S. Rutherford, DDS, PA
can
provide denture relining that will make them fit like new again!
