Denture relining restores the precise fit between the denture base and the underlying oral tissues. The process involves adding new material to the internal surface of the denture, which rests directly on the gums. Maintaining a secure fit is important for the wearer’s comfort and for the proper function of the prosthetic during speaking and eating. A well-fitting denture provides stability, preventing movement that can cause friction and irritation to the mouth’s delicate tissues.
Why Dentures Need Periodic Adjustment
The need for denture relining stems from natural, ongoing biological changes in the mouth following tooth loss. The jawbone (alveolar ridge) is no longer stimulated by biting forces, leading to residual alveolar ridge resorption, where the bone shrinks and changes shape over time. This continuous bone loss progresses throughout the wearer’s life. As gum tissue and bone contours change, a gap develops between the denture’s rigid base and the shrinking ridge. This instability causes the denture to slip, reducing chewing efficiency and potentially causing painful sore spots.
Professional Reline Procedures
Professional denture relining offers a precise and durable solution for changes in oral anatomy. Dentists typically offer two main types: a soft reline and a hard reline. Both procedures require taking an impression of the patient’s current gum and bone structure to ensure the added material conforms perfectly to the new contours.
Hard Reline
A hard reline is the more permanent solution, using a durable, rigid acrylic resin similar to the original denture base material. For this procedure, a dental professional removes a small layer from the inside of the denture and takes a new impression. The denture is usually sent to a dental laboratory, where the impression material is replaced with the hard acrylic. This material is heat-cured and polished for a long-lasting, tight fit that can last for two years or longer.
Soft Reline
A soft reline uses a pliable, medical-grade polymer material that remains flexible after curing. This option is recommended for patients with sensitive gum tissue, chronic sore spots, or those who are still in a healing phase after extractions. The soft material acts as a cushion, providing immediate relief and comfort. Soft relines can often be completed chairside, but the material is less durable and generally requires replacement every six to eighteen months.
Understanding At-Home Reline Kits
At-home denture reline kits are commercially available products intended to temporarily cushion or tighten a loose denture. These kits typically use soft, temporary liners or putties that the wearer applies directly to the denture surface. While they may seem like a quick, low-cost fix, these kits are not a substitute for professional dental care and carry significant risks.
A major risk of using DIY kits is the high probability of an improper fit, which can worsen existing problems. Without a professional assessment, the user cannot accurately determine pressure points or properly distribute the reline material. This improper application can result in an incorrect bite, making chewing difficult and potentially accelerating jawbone loss due to uneven forces. Furthermore, the materials are generally of lower quality and can degrade quickly, sometimes causing chemical burns or rough edges that injure soft tissues. Attempting a DIY reline may also delay a necessary professional examination, preventing the diagnosis of more serious underlying oral health conditions. These kits should only be used as a brief, emergency measure until a dental professional can provide a proper, long-term solution.