Always Make Sure the Dentures Fit Your Teeth

During the process known as resorption, the body leaches calcium from the jawbone that no longer has teeth stimulating it. The body then distributes the calcium to other areas of the body. While natural tooth loss is a common part of aging, we can help prevent resorption with dentures. Since the jawbone will continue to recede over time, the dentures will need adjustments from a professional. Fortunately, altering the size of dentures is an easy procedure that we can complete in our office, known as relining.

In simple terms, relining is the procedure in which we reshape the underside of the denture to make it more comfortable as it rests against the gums. There are two separate methods for relining, hard reline and soft reline, that we will use depending on the needs of the patient. During the relining process, we can complete this procedure in our office or send the dentures to a dental lab. With pros and cons to each, it is important to ask a professional for guidance on the most effective option.

A soft reline involves the use of a liquid polymer that we layer into the denture to create depth and a cushion. This "cushion" will tend to be more comfortable than a hard reline and is a relatively quick procedure. In fact, patients can receive the soft reline chairside and avoid having to send the dentures to a lab and go several days with temporary dentures or nothing at all.

However, a soft reline may not last as long as a hard reline and can require more frequent visits to continue keeping up with the receding jaw. For some people, this can result in more visits and higher costs that they may not be able to spend. We understand that dentures are crucial to one's lifestyle, including the ability to speak and eat. Thus, we will do everything we can to efficiently and properly repair the dentures.

A hard reline involves using material that is much more similar to the hard base of the denture. While a hard and soft reline accomplish the same goal, the hard reline will normally produce a more permanent result. While some professionals can complete the hard reline chairside, many recommend sending it to a dental lab to ensure that everything goes without a problem.

However, a hard reline will take more time to complete since it is at a dental lab. In this case, we will go over possible replacement options and help to determine the best course of action for the patient's needs. Relining dentures is not a procedure that anyone can complete at home.

Dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. However, without proper care, their lifespan will be less than what many prefer. The most effective method for getting the best mileage out of dentures is by following care instructions from the dental professional and scheduling regular appointments for denture care. We can use a denture relining to help patients keep the same pair of dentures they are comfortable with and prevent them from spending large amounts of money on new pairs.

Definition of Denture Terminology