Do You Need a Denture Reline? Off the Trace Dental Is Here to Help
Relining dentures is a crucial step in maintaining the comfort, fit, and function of your dentures over time. Over the years, the shape and structure of your mouth change, causing dentures to fit less securely, which can lead to discomfort and even health issues. Relining your dentures can restore their fit, extend their lifespan, and improve your overall oral health, but sometimes replacement may be necessary if relining is not sufficient.
It is important to seek professional advice from a dentist when considering relining or replacement of dentures to ensure the best fit and comfort.
Make sure your dentures fit and are comfortable! You don’t want to deal with ill-fitting dentures. To reline your dentures, contact our Slidell dentist today at (985) 214-2844. We also proudly serve patients near Mandeville, Picayune, and Chalmette!
Get to Know Dr. Pamela Daigle at Off the Trace Dental
At Off the Trace Dental, LA, Dr. Pamela Daigle, one of the best dentists in Slidell, leads with compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to her patients’ well-being. With years of experience in family dentistry, Dr. Daigle prioritizes patient comfort while delivering exceptional care. She believes in treating patients like family, taking time to listen, answer questions, and create a dental experience that’s both personalized and stress-free. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, her gentle approach helps even the most anxious patients feel at ease.
Dr. Daigle’s philosophy centers on honesty, trust, and high-quality service. At Off the Trace Dental, she uses modern technology and proven techniques to help patients achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Her goal is to make every visit enjoyable and to build long-term relationships rooted in mutual respect and genuine care. Patients trust Dr. Daigle not only for her clinical skill but also for her warm, patient-focused approach.
What Is Denture Relining? Our Dentist Near Picayune Explains
Denture relining is a process that involves reshaping the underside of your dentures to better fit the current contours of your mouth. When you first get dentures, they’re custom-fitted to your gums; however, as time goes on, your gums and jawbone can change due to bone resorption (bone loss) or disease, causing your dentures to become loose and uncomfortable. Relining helps fill in these gaps, restoring stability, comfort, and function.
In the next section, we’ll explain the difference between the types of denture relines, including their materials, durability, and suitability for different patients.
Why Do Dentures Need to Be Relined?
The primary reason for denture relining is to adjust the fit after changes in the jawbone and gum tissue, which are especially common in the first few years after tooth loss. As your jawbone changes, your dentures become loose, making it harder to chew, speak, and maintain comfort.
Other reasons for relining include:
- Prolonged denture wear: Frequent use can cause the material to wear down, altering the fit.
- Oral health changes: Gum tissue changes due to aging, illness, or lifestyle factors.
- Injury or trauma: Accidents affecting your mouth can change the structure of the jaw or gums. Dentures that are too old or damaged may break, making relining or replacement necessary.
No matter the reason, regular dental check-ups and adjustments are important to maintain the comfort and fit of your dentures.
Types of Denture Relines
Soft Denture Reline
Soft relines use a more flexible, softer material that is applied to create a cushion between the gums and the denture base. Soft relines are especially beneficial for patients with tender or sore gums. Soft relines can be performed on both upper and lower dentures.
Pros of Soft Denture Reline:
- Offers greater comfort, especially for patients with sensitive gums.
- The soft material adjusts better to changes in the mouth.
- Allows patients to continue wearing dentures more comfortably.
Cons of Soft Denture Reline:
- Needs to be replaced more frequently than a hard reline.
- Not as durable as a hard reline.
- The soft material can become hardened and less effective over time.
Hard Denture Reline
A hard reline involves reshaping the denture’s base with a hard resin material similar to the original denture base. After the hard material is set, the dentist will trim any excess material to ensure a precise fit. This type of reline is durable and long-lasting, making it ideal for patients seeking a stable and strong fit.
Pros of Hard Denture Reline:
- Provides a more permanent and stable solution.
- Lasts longer than other types of relines.
- Ensures the denture fits snugly to the gums.
- Feels more like the original fit.
Cons of Hard Denture Reline:
- It can be uncomfortable for patients with sensitive gums.
- Takes longer to complete than a soft reline.
Temporary Reline
Finally, a temporary reline, also known as a therapeutic reline, is often used when there is significant irritation, inflammation, or infection of the gums. This reline uses a medicated, soft material to help soothe the gums and promote healing.
Pros of Temporary Denture Reline:
- Allows for healing if the gums are sore or infected.
- Provides temporary comfort while addressing gum issues.
Cons of Temporary Denture Reline:
- Only a short-term solution, with an expected duration of just a few weeks.
- Requires follow-up to transition to a hard or soft reline.
The Denture Relining Process Near Chalmette, LA
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment
The first step involves a consultation with our dentist in Slidell. They’ll examine your mouth, review and verify the fit and condition of your dentures, and discuss the best reline option for your specific needs.
Step 2: Preparing the Denture
Our Slidell dentist will remove a thin layer of material from the denture base, making room for the reline material. This step is crucial to ensure that the new material bonds effectively and achieves the optimal fit.
Step 3: Application of the Reline Material
Depending on the type of reline, our dentist near you will apply a layer of soft or hard reline material to the underside of the denture. An impression is taken of the inside of the denture to ensure a precise fit. The denture is then placed in your mouth to shape the material to the contours of your gums. During this process, the dentist will check and adjust your bite to ensure proper alignment and comfort.
Step 4: Setting and Finishing
Once the material has been set, Dr. Daigle will smooth and polish the relined denture. The result should be a snug, comfortable fit that matches the current shape of your gums.
Benefits of Relining Dentures
Enhanced Comfort
A snug fit provided by relining reduces the pressure on your gums, making it much more comfortable to wear your dentures daily.
Improved Stability
Relining restores the stability of your dentures, making it easier to eat, talk, and engage in social activities without worrying about slippage.
Better Oral Health
Relining can prevent sores and irritation caused by loose dentures, which can lead to infections and other oral health issues if left unaddressed.
Cost Savings
Regular relining can extend the life of your dentures, allowing you to delay the need for a new set. This can save you money in the long run by minimizing the need for repairs or replacements.
How Often Should Dentures Be Relined?
Most dentists in Slidell recommend having dentures relined every 1 to 2 years, but this can vary based on individual needs and the type of reline used. Temporary relines typically last a few months, while permanent relines can last one to two years or longer; how long each reline lasts depends on the materials and your oral health. It is important to follow the recommended relining schedule, as regular relining can help prolong the life of your dentures and maintain comfort and stability.
Signs You Need Denture Relining
Relining is usually needed when you start noticing any of the following signs:
- Loose dentures: If your dentures move around or slip when speaking or eating.
- Sore spots: Pain or irritation from dentures rubbing against your gums.
- Difficulty chewing: Food becoming harder to chew can indicate a poor fit.
- Changes in speech: Changes in how you speak or difficulty pronouncing certain words.
Contact our Slidell dental office today by calling (985) 214-2844 to schedule an appointment.
Costs and Duration of Denture Relines
Average Costs
In the United States, the cost of soft relines typically ranges from $300 to $500, while hard relines generally cost between $200 and $450. Temporary relines are usually less expensive, costing around $100 to $200. The average costs vary depending on the type of reline you choose, with each option offering different denture benefits and longevity. Some dental offices offer in-house membership plans, so check with a dentist near you during your consultation.
How Long Relines Last
The lifespan of denture relines varies based on the type used and the care taken. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:
- Soft relines: These need to be done every one to two years, depending on wear and maintenance.
- Hard relines: Can last from one to two years with proper care.
- Temporary relines: Designed for short-term use, typically lasting only a few weeks.
Post-Reline Care for Dentures
Cleaning Relined Dentures
Before and after relining, always rinse your dentures thoroughly with water to remove debris, bacteria, and residues, ensuring optimal hygiene and adhesion.
Cleaning relined dentures requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the new material. Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive. Proper cleaning ensures the longevity and hygiene of your dentures, maintaining their comfort and functionality.
Avoiding Denture Adhesive
Avoiding denture adhesive immediately after a reline is crucial as it allows the new material to set and bond properly with the denture. Using adhesive too soon can disrupt the reline, leading to discomfort and a poor fit.
Regularly scheduled check-ups help assess the fit and make necessary adjustments, reducing the need for adhesives. Good oral hygiene and following post-reline care practices also contribute to a proper fit and comfort.
Can You Reline Dentures at Home?
While some may consider relining their dentures at home, professional assistance is generally recommended due to the potential risks and complications. Attempting to reline dentures at home can lead to error, such as improper technique or preparation, which may result in a poor fit or damage to the dentures. Professional denture relines ensure optimal fit and comfort, utilizing specialized materials and techniques that are difficult to replicate at home. DIY relines can result in an improper fit, discomfort, and even damage to the dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does denture relining take?
Denture relining usually takes one to two hours if done in-office, but some types may require sending the dentures to a dental lab, which can take a few days. Completing the relining process may take longer when lab work is involved.
How do I care for relined dentures?
After relining, clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap or a denture cleanser. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or hot water, which can damage the material.
Can all types of dentures be relined?
Most types of dentures can be relined, including partial and full dentures. However, some materials, like flexible dentures, may not be suitable for traditional relining.
Maintain Comfort and Health With Denture Relining at Off the Trace Dental
Denture relining is an essential aspect of denture maintenance that can significantly improve your comfort, oral health, and quality of life. If your dentures feel uncomfortable or don’t fit like they used to, it’s time to consider a dental reline at an affordable price. Our dentist near you will be happy to maintain your peace of mind and can examine your gums and teeth.
Our dental team is ready to assist with all your denture relining needs. Schedule an appointment with our skilled dental team to find the best relining option for you. Whether you need a hard, soft, or temporary reline, we’re here to help you restore your comfort and confidence and leave a lasting impression. Denture wearers looking for relining services and improved comfort can contact our dentist in Slidell today by calling (985) 214-2844 for an appointment. You can also request more information or an appointment for denture relining services. We also proudly serve patients near Mandeville, Picayune, and Chalmette!