Denture relining is a routine procedure focused on restoring the precise fit of a dental prosthesis by resurfacing the base that rests directly on the soft tissues of the mouth. This adjustment becomes necessary because the jawbone and gum tissue naturally change shape over time, a process known as resorption. When teeth are lost, the alveolar bone structure supporting them begins to shrink and remodel, altering the contours of the mouth. Since the denture is rigid, this gradual tissue shrinkage creates a growing gap between the denture base and the gum line. A reline simply adds new material to the appliance’s fitting surface to conform to the current oral anatomy, re-establishing comfort and stability.
Identifying the Need for a Reline
The need for a reline becomes apparent through specific signs indicating the denture’s fit has been compromised. A common indication is a noticeable increase in the movement or slippage of the appliance while talking or eating, often leading to a greater reliance on denture adhesives. The poor fit can also lead to mechanical issues, such as food frequently becoming trapped beneath the plate.
The resulting friction between the loose denture and the gum tissue can cause chronic irritation, leading to painful sore spots or inflammation. Furthermore, a loose fit affects daily function, manifesting as difficulty chewing food effectively or a subtle change in speech clarity, such as lisping. These symptoms collectively signal that the underlying bone structure has changed enough to warrant an adjustment.
Professional Reline Procedures
Professional relining is categorized by the material used and the setting in which the work is performed, offering precise, long-term solutions.
Hard Reline
A hard reline uses a durable, rigid material, typically a new layer of acrylic resin similar to the original denture base. This procedure is generally performed using an indirect technique: the professional takes an impression using the existing denture as a tray. The appliance is then sent to a dental laboratory where the rigid material is processed and cured under heat and pressure for a highly accurate result. Hard relines provide a stable, firm fit, often lasting between two and five years, making it the standard solution for patients with stable, healthy gum tissue.
Soft Reline
In contrast, a soft reline uses a flexible, pliable material, such as medical-grade silicone or specialized polymer. This rubber-like lining provides a cushioning effect, making it the preferred option for individuals with sensitive gum tissue or chronic sore spots. While sometimes performed chairside, soft relines are porous and require more frequent replacement, typically lasting between 12 and 18 months.
Temporary Reline (Tissue Conditioning)
Before a permanent procedure, a temporary reline, also known as tissue conditioning, may be used. This involves applying a very soft, medicated lining to the denture for a few weeks. This allows inflamed or traumatized gum tissue to heal before a final, accurate impression is taken.
Understanding At-Home Reline Kits
At-home reline kits are commercially available products that offer a temporary, do-it-yourself solution for loose dentures. These kits typically contain a soft, putty-like material, usually a resin or polymer, that is mixed and applied to the inside surface of the denture. The user places the denture into their mouth to mold the material against the gums, allowing it to set and improve the fit.
While these kits may offer immediate, short-term relief, they are not a substitute for professional care and carry significant limitations. The materials used are often less durable and less precise than those used in a dental lab, degrading quickly and requiring frequent reapplication. Crucially, the kits lack the precision required for proper anatomical fit, as they are applied without the professional assessment needed to ensure an even bite or correct pressure distribution.
Improper application can lead to an uneven layer, potentially creating new pressure points that cause chemical burns or further irritation to the gums. Relying on these temporary fixes also risks masking serious underlying oral health issues, such as severe bone resorption or fungal infections, by delaying a necessary professional examination. A flawed application can even damage the denture beyond repair, ultimately leading to a more costly replacement.