Dentures are designed to restore comfort, function, and confidence to your smile. But over time, it’s common for them to feel loose, uncomfortable, or unstable. If your dentures aren’t fitting the way they once did, you may not need a brand-new set, though—instead, you may simply benefit from a denture reline. But what is this process, and is it something you can do yourself? Here’s a little more about denture relines and why your dentist is the best person for the task.
Why Do Dentures Start to Feel Loose?
Even if your dentures fit perfectly when they were first made, your mouth naturally changes over time. After teeth are removed or lost, the jawbone and gum tissue gradually reshape and shrink, a normal process called bone resorption. However, as this happens, the base of your dentures will no longer match the contours of your gums.
You may begin to notice your dentures slipping when you talk or eat, clicking sounds when speaking or moving your mouth, or changes in how your bite feels. It’s also possible for sores to form. When this happens, a reline can often restore the snug fit that you’re missing.
What Does a Denture Reline Involve?
A denture reline is a process used to reshape the underside of your dentures, which is the part that rests against your gums, so that it fits better with your current oral anatomy. During your visit, your dentist will carefully evaluate the fit of your dentures and then take precise impressions of your gums. Then, new material is essentially added to the inner surface of the restorations.
This new shape should ensure that your bite and comfort are properly restored, and the dentures will feel tighter and more stable. The best part is that this negates the need for entirely new dentures, which would involve more time, effort, and money.
Why Can’t I Reline My Dentures Myself?
It can be tempting to try an at-home denture reline kit, especially if your dentures suddenly begin to feel uncomfortable. However, these products can often cause more harm than good. DIY relining can create an uneven fit that worsens irritation, throw off your bite alignment, trap bacteria against your gums, or damage or permanently warp the denture base.
Since your dentist knows your smile best, it’s wise to trust them to handle your denture reline. Plus, they’ll also thoroughly evaluate your dental health throughout the process, meaning your dentures will be functional and the smile that houses them will be in excellent shape!
About the Practice
With Dr. Melody Stampe and Dr. Tamara Gater leading our team, we’re proud to serve patients and families in Richardson and the surrounding North Texas community. We offer a wide range of services, ranging from routine preventive care to high-quality restorative services, including dentures for replacing missing teeth. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment to have your dentures adjusted, relined, or replaced, you can call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: +1 (972) 231-9499.