Dentures are a wonderful replacement for missing teeth, but they are not completely maintenance-free. They will need repairs and some basic services, including relining. Keep reading to learn about relining, what it is, and the signs that you need to speak with your dentist about it.
What Is Relining?
Your dentures are made from a variety of materials, including acrylic resin and porcelain. The resin is used to form the base, and this ensures a strong and smooth structure. The resin is hard enough that it will not bend or warp if taken care of properly. While this is true, the base will likely feel loose over time. This is not the result of the change in the shape of the dentures but of the shrinking of the tissues that sit underneath them. Not only do the gums start to thin and wear, but the bone underneath will also shrink.
When tissue degradation and atrophy develops, you will need a denture reline. A relining is the creation of a new acrylic base that sits correctly over the bony ridges of the jaw. Sometimes a brand-new base will be needed and the porcelain teeth will be transferred to this base. Your dentist may also suggest the addition of a new resin layer. This bulks up the original base, preventing the need for a brand-new one.
Keep in mind that if you have experienced any tooth breaks or other issues with your dentures, it may be wise to simply have a new set of dentures constructed. So, speak with your dentist about the cost difference between the relining service and new denture creation.
Signs You Need A Relining
Relining is necessary if your dentures wobble back and forth when you eat and talk. And, this movement has likely caused some discomfort in the way of sores around the mouth. Sores are a concern as they can become infected and the openings will have a difficult time healing if you continue to place pressure on them.
Your dentures also may need some adjustment if you find that you are using more and more denture cream to keep the false teeth in place. You should only really be using about three pea-sized dabs along the underside of each denture. If you are using two to three times this amount, speak with your dentist about a reline.
If you have not had a reline within the last two to three years, then you also may want to invest in one. If you have not experienced any issues yet with the way the dentures feel or act, then it is a good time to have the service completed before difficulties do develop.
Contact a denture clinic in your area for more information.
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