Denture Reline
Dentures are designed to last about five years. Dentists understand that a person’s oral environment changes due to aging and other conditions. Due to prolonged wear and use, denture wearers will definitely need a denture realignment. The reason for a denture reline is that our gums and bones underneath begin to shrink, shift, and deteriorate.
Bone loss will change your dentures and can change your facial structure while also making your jawline recede. This bone loss and the change in jaw shape will continue as years go by, which will cause you to need a denture realignment technique. Do you wear dentures and are they beginning to fit uncomfortably?
If your answer is yes, then it is probably time to have them relined. To reline your dentures, a dental professional will fit them against the gums more correctly. In general, denture wearers tend to receive a reline every few years.
There are three types of denture reline procedures: soft, hard, and temporary. A soft reline is accomplished in a dental office, where a liquid polymer or a dental putty is placed beneath the denture for stronger cushioning.
A hard reline is also a denture adhesive process. But like a soft reline, a hard reline uses a more permanent gluing application that lasts longer. A hard reline should be performed on full dentures every two years.
A denture reline can also be used to repair dentures if they become damaged. If dentures have not been annually serviced, then with daily chewing habits, gums can easily become swollen.
A temporary or medicated reline is used because an irregular denture fit has caused gum inflammation. A temporary reline is very light and soft on the gums. Thus there is no irritation to the gums. When gum inflammation has subsided, then the temporary reline is removed and the patient is fitted for a hard reline or a new set of dentures.
If you are experiencing any denture discomfort, don’t bear the pain, contact your dental professional and inquire about a possible reline procedure. There is no reason to tolerate ill-fitted dentures when there is help in a dental chair; your smile will thank you.