If you wear dentures, you know how important a good fit is for your comfort and confidence. Over time, even the best-fitting dentures can start to feel loose or uncomfortable. That’s where denture relining comes in.
Relining your dentures can make a big difference to how they feel and function. In this article, we’ll explain why denture relining is so important, how it works, and how it helps you enjoy a more secure, comfortable smile every day.
What Is Denture Relining?
Denture relining is a process that reshapes the underside of your denture to better fit the changing contours of your gums. It involves adding new material to the base of the denture, helping it sit more securely and comfortably in your mouth.
Relining does not change the appearance of the dentures—it simply improves how they fit against your gums.
Why Do Dentures Need Relining?
Even if your dentures were perfectly fitted when you first got them, your mouth naturally changes over time. This can cause dentures to become loose or uncomfortable.
Common reasons why dentures need relining include:
- Natural Bone Shrinkage: After tooth loss, the jawbone gradually shrinks, changing the shape of your mouth.
- Gum Changes: Gums can shrink or recede with age or as part of the healing process after extractions.
- Daily Wear and Tear: Regular use puts pressure on dentures and gums, which can cause minor changes over time.
Relining helps adjust the fit to match these changes, maintaining comfort and function.
Signs That You May Need a Denture Reline
It’s important to recognise the early signs that your dentures might need relining. Some common indicators include:
- Dentures feeling loose or moving when you talk or eat
- Sore spots or irritation on your gums
- Food getting trapped under your dentures
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Increased use of denture adhesive to keep them in place
If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to book an appointment for a denture assessment.
Types of Denture Relining
There are a few different ways your dentures can be relined, depending on your needs:
Soft Reline
- Involves using a softer, flexible material that cushions the denture against sensitive gums.
- Ideal for people with tender gums or those who experience frequent sore spots.
- Provides a gentler, more comfortable fit.
Hard Reline
- Uses a more durable material similar to the original denture base.
- Recommended for people who want a long-term solution with a firmer, more secure fit.
- Typically lasts longer than a soft reline.
Temporary Reline
- A quick, short-term fix used when gums are healing after recent extractions or surgeries.
- Helps improve comfort until a permanent reline or new denture can be made.
Your denture specialist will recommend the best type of reline based on your situation.
Benefits of Regular Denture Relining
Keeping your dentures properly relined offers several important benefits:
- Enhanced Comfort: A snug fit reduces sore spots, irritation, and general discomfort.
- Better Chewing Ability: Well-fitting dentures stay secure when eating, making meals more enjoyable.
- Improved Speech: Loose dentures can cause mumbling or lisping. A reline helps you speak more clearly.
- Prolongs the Life of Your Dentures: Relining extends the life of your existing dentures, saving you from needing new ones too soon.
- Maintains Oral Health: Reduces the risk of gum infections and bone loss caused by ill-fitting dentures.
Relining is a simple way to keep your dentures working at their best and protect your long-term oral health.
How Often Should Dentures Be Relined?
Most people benefit from having their dentures assessed every 12–24 months. However, you may need a reline sooner if you experience changes in comfort or fit.
Some situations that might require earlier relining include:
- Significant weight loss
- Recent tooth extractions
- Changes in medication affecting bone or gum health
- Natural ageing
Regular check-ups with your denture clinic ensure that small issues are caught early, preventing bigger problems down the track.
Keep Your Dentures Comfortable with Professional Relining
Relining is a simple but vital part of denture maintenance. It keeps your dentures fitting properly, helps protect your gums, and ensures you stay comfortable and confident every day. If you’re experiencing any discomfort or looseness with your dentures, it might be time to consider a reline.
At South Coast Denture Clinic, we offer expert denture relining services to help you enjoy a comfortable, secure fit for years to come. Our friendly team is here to assess your needs and provide personalised solutions to keep your smile in top shape.
Contact us today to book a consultation and find out how a professional denture reline can transform your comfort and confidence!
