Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissue, restoring both function and appearance. A common question is whether these devices can be adjusted for a better fit; the answer is definitively yes. Adjustments are a normal and necessary part of wearing dentures, ensuring they remain comfortable and functional. Since the mouth is a dynamic biological environment, an initially perfect fit will inevitably change, requiring professional adjustment to maintain proper speech and chewing.
Why Denture Fit Changes Over Time
The primary reason a secure denture begins to feel loose is the continuous alteration of the underlying jawbone, a process known as alveolar ridge resorption. When natural teeth are removed, the supporting bone no longer receives stimulation from chewing forces. This lack of stimulation causes the bone density and volume to progressively decrease, changing the shape of the foundation the denture rests upon.
This bone loss occurs most rapidly during the first year after extraction; the lower jaw typically experiences resorption four times greater than the upper jaw. As the bone shrinks, the denture base loses its tight seal, causing it to rock or shift. Beyond biological changes, the denture material itself is subject to wear and tear from daily use, including constant chewing pressure and temperature fluctuations. These cumulative changes result in an ill-fitting denture, leading to discomfort and reduced effectiveness.
Understanding Professional Adjustment Techniques
When a denture fit declines, dental professionals use several techniques to restore comfort and stability, ranging from minor shaping to complete base replacement.
Chairside Adjustment
For small issues like localized pressure spots or minor rubbing, a chairside adjustment is performed. This involves carefully trimming and polishing the acrylic base to eliminate friction points. This quick, non-invasive procedure immediately addresses localized irritation.
Reline Procedures
For comprehensive fit correction due to tissue changes, a reline procedure adds new material to the internal surface of the denture. A soft reline involves applying a pliable, rubber-like material that acts as a cushion, offering immediate relief for sensitive or sore gum tissue. This material hardens over time and typically requires replacement every one to two years. A hard reline uses a more durable, rigid acrylic material, providing a long-lasting, snug fit, generally recommended every two years. This process involves removing a layer of the old base and taking a new impression of the current gum tissue contour, often requiring the denture to be sent to a dental lab for fabrication.
Rebasing
The most extensive adjustment is rebasing, reserved for when the denture teeth are still in good condition but the acrylic base is severely worn or damaged. Rebasing replaces the entire denture base with new material, using a fresh impression to ensure a complete overhaul of the fit and structural integrity.
The Risks of Attempting DIY Denture Repair
Attempting to fix a loose or broken denture at home with over-the-counter kits or household adhesives carries significant risks to the appliance and oral health. Many common glues, such as superglue, contain toxic chemicals not designed for oral contact and can be dangerous if ingested. Applying these substances can also irreparably damage the acrylic base, making professional repair impossible and forcing a full replacement.
Self-repair almost always results in a poor fit due to the lack of specialized tools and knowledge. Even a minute misalignment can create an uneven surface, causing painful pressure points and chronic mouth sores. Furthermore, using unsterilized materials during home repair compromises oral hygiene, introducing bacteria and increasing the risk of severe oral infection. Professional intervention is necessary to maintain the precise alignment required for comfortable function.