Today's dentures look and feel as good as your natural teeth, and just like your natural teeth they need occasional maintenance. While they may look natural, dentures are made of man-made materials that are more impervious to wear than your real teeth. That means long-lasting smiles but it also can mean that the gums underneath your dentures will be doing all the changing. All living tissues like gums and bones are constantly changing. For denture-wearers, that can mean sore spots can form on the gums. When that happens, your dentures may need adjusting. Read on to find out what to expect with your denture relining.
What is Relining?
Your dentures are made up of the faux teeth that rest on a solid base. Under that hard base is a material that is custom-molded to your gums. That material provides comfort and it can be adjusted over time as needed. When that material is adjusted, that is known as a denture reline. The need for a reline doesn't mean your dentures were badly made. The changing shape of your mouth is simply a part of the natural process of the gums and bones.
First, a Temporary Fix
Your gums need to calm down before the dentist can address relining. Luckily, your dentist can provide you with some immediate relief from the soreness by using medicated materials to temporarily reline your dentures. Once the swelling has reduced (which might take a few weeks ), your dentist will create a new mold that takes into account the changes in your bone structure and gums that have occurred. Once the new mold is ready, you have a choice of two different reline methods.
A Soft Denture Reline
Those with sensitive gums will probably gravitate towards the soft reline method. The material used to make the bottom part of the dentures will be more rubbery than the other option, the hard reline. The best thing about a soft reline is comfort for the wearer. Soft relines, though, may be more challenging to fit properly. You may need to go back to the dentist a few times for more adjustments with a soft reline.
A Hard Reline
Unlike rubbery material, a hard reline uses acrylic for a more solid fit. Usually, the reline using hard materials will be exact based on the mold. That might mean fewer return visits for adjustments.
If you are still unhappy with the way your dentures fit after a relining, you might be ready for a new set of dentures. Don't live with dental discomfort. To learn more about denture relining, speak to a denture clinic in your.
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