Dentures are vital in restoring smiles and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with tooth loss. However, over time, changes in the jawbone and soft tissues can affect the fit and comfort of dentures, leading to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and other issues. Fortunately, denture relining has proven to be a practical solution to restore dentures' fit, function, and comfort, ensuring continued satisfaction and confidence in one's smile.

Denture relining is a dental procedure aimed at improving dentures' fit and comfort by reshaping the denture base's underside. Over time, changes in the jawbone structure or soft tissues of the mouth can cause dentures to become loose or ill-fitting, leading to discomfort and difficulty chewing. During a denture reline, a new layer of denture material is added to the base to compensate for these changes and restore proper fit and function. This process helps alleviate discomfort, prevent sore spots, and improve stability, allowing individuals to enjoy greater confidence and satisfaction in their smiles.

Signs That Denture Relines Are Needed 

• If your dentures feel loose or unstable, shifting out of place while eating or speaking may indicate a need for relining. Loose dentures can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, and embarrassment in social situations. 
• When dentures no longer fit properly, persistent sore spots or irritation on the gums or soft tissues of the mouth can develop. If left untreated, these sore spots can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and even oral ulcers. 
• Changes in denture fit can impair chewing efficiency and speech articulation, making it challenging to eat certain foods or communicate clearly. It may be time for a reline if you have trouble chewing or speaking while wearing your dentures. 
• Slipping or clicking noises when talking or chewing can occur when dentures no longer fit snugly against the gums and underlying jawbone. These noises can be disruptive and embarrassing, affecting your confidence and social interactions. 
• Jawbone resorption, a natural consequence of tooth loss, can lead to changes in facial appearance, such as a sunken or collapsed appearance around the mouth. If you notice changes in your facial structure or profile, it may indicate a need for denture relining to restore proper support and aesthetics. Contact us today! 

Types of Denture Relines 

Soft Denture Relines 

Soft denture relines involve using a soft, pliable material to line the underside of the denture, providing enhanced comfort for individuals with sensitive or sore gums. Soft relines are ideal for patients experiencing discomfort or irritation from traditional hard acrylic dentures. 

Hard Denture Relines 

Hard denture relines involve adding a new layer of hard acrylic material to the base of the denture to improve fit and stability. Hard relines provide a more durable and long-lasting solution for individuals with dentures that have become loose or ill-fitting due to changes in the jawbone or soft tissues.

The Denture Relining Process 

• During your dental appointment, our dentist in Los Gatos, CA, will evaluate the fit and condition of your dentures and determine if a relining is necessary. 
• If relining is recommended, impressions of your mouth will be taken to capture the precise shape and size of your jawbone and soft tissues. 
• Using the impressions as a guide, our dentist will add a new layer of denture material to the underside of your denture to improve its fit and comfort. 
• Once the relining material has been set, our dentist at Orchid Dental Care will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit, function, and comfort. 
• After adjustments, your dentures will be checked for proper fit and comfort before being returned to you for daily use. 

Why Are Denture Relines Necessary? 

Denture relines in Los Gatos, CA, are crucial for maintaining optimal comfort, stability, and functionality for individuals with dentures. Over time, changes in the jawbone structure and soft tissues of the mouth can occur due to tooth loss and natural aging processes. These changes often result in the gradual resorption or shrinkage of the jawbone and alterations in the shape and size of the gums. Consequently, dentures that once fit snugly and securely may become loose or ill-fitting, leading to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and other issues. Denture relines address these changes by adding a new layer of denture material to the base of the denture, restoring proper fit and comfort. 

Moreover, denture relines are pivotal in preventing oral health complications associated with poorly fitting dentures. Loose or ill-fitting dentures can cause friction and pressure on the gums, leading to sore spots, irritation, and inflammation. These issues can escalate into more severe problems, such as oral ulcers or infections if left unaddressed. By ensuring a proper fit, denture relines help alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of oral health complications, promoting the overall well-being of denture wearers. 

Furthermore, denture relines improve the quality of life and confidence in individuals with dentures. Loose or unstable dentures can impact essential daily activities such as eating, speaking, and socializing, leading to embarrassment and self-consciousness. Relines restore stability and functionality to dentures and enable individuals to enjoy greater comfort and freedom in their daily lives. Whether savoring favorite foods, engaging in conversations without fear of denture slippage, or smiling confidently in social settings, denture relines empower individuals to live life to the fullest. 

Denture relining is a valuable dental procedure that helps restore dentures' fit, comfort, and function for individuals dealing with tooth loss. Visit Orchid Dental Care at 320 Los Gatos—Saratoga Road, Los Gatos, CA 95030, or call (408) 395-8888 to learn more about denture relines and how they can benefit you.