Denture Adjustments: What To Know About Relining

Dentures have helped people get affordable help for missing teeth for many years. With the passing of time, denture technology has gotten better and better. For denture wearers, that can mean a more natural look along with greater comfort. Dentures should be occasionally adjusted to provide the wearer with the best fit. Find out more about these adjustments by reading below. 

Your Gums Can Change

One thing is certain with denture wearers. Those pearly white teeth are impervious to almost every issue that plagues those with natural teeth. They are stronger than natural teeth and very difficult to break. Even when your dentures are strong and attractive, your gums may be subject to change. As time goes by, your gums can undergo changes in size and shape. Dentures are made to accommodate some changes, however with the way they are constructed.

Dentures and Cushioning

To ensure a denture wearer is comfortable, dentures have a soft, custom-made base. This base provides enough cushioning to deal with most minor changes in the gums caused by eating habits, weight changes, and more. However, soreness can result when an adjustment is needed. This adjustment is known in the dental business as a reline. It's perfectly normal to need a reline and it doesn't mean your dentures were poorly made. Sometimes the wearer needs a reline soon after beginning to wear them, but they usually need a reline after several years of use.

Calm Down the Irritation

Denture relining requires that the wearer not have any swelling or inflammation. See your dentist once you begin experiencing pain and discomfort and get some fast relief. Your dentist will reline your dentures using medication-infused cushions to give your gums a chance to calm down. It may take some time for the irritation to reduce. Once your gums are ready, your dentist will make a new mold from your gums.

Types of Relines

A soft reline includes the use of softer materials to line the base of the denture. This type of relining may be more comfortable for the wearer. However, a soft reline can take more visits to the dentist to get things just right. A hard reline uses a stronger, solid material. Some denture wearers prefer the feel and ease of use with a hard reline. Hard relines tend to require fewer visits to the dentist for fit.

Don't put up with uncomfortable dentures. Speak to your dentist and find out what can be done to make your dentures more comfortable.

Reach out to a local dentist office to learn more.