Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for rebuilding smiles after tooth loss. Whether you’re missing an entire arch or several teeth fell out sporadically, your dentist can provide a lifelike restoration to improve your smile’s appearance and functionality.
However, after a few years, you might notice that your dentures don’t fit as well as they did initially. You might feel tempted to try to reline them yourself to help them remain in place more firmly, but this isn’t usually recommended. Continue reading to learn more about why it’s better to contact your dentist for help!
Why Don’t My Dentures Fit Well Anymore?
One of the reasons so many patients choose dentures is that they’re a one-of-a-kind solution designed to look and feel as lifelike as possible. That means they’re customized at each stage of their creation to fit like a glove and resemble your natural teeth and gums.
But over time, you may realize that your prosthetics aren’t forming as tight a suction as they used to, and that they feel loose or destabilized in your mouth. This happens because your jaw starts to thin when teeth go missing, because there are fewer roots to stimulate new bone growth with each bite down. Eventually, the bony ridges of your mouth flatten, leaving your dentures without a strong enough anchor.
What is Denture Relining?
Your dentist can temporarily improve the fit of your restoration by adding material to the base so it can form a tight enough bond to your connective tissues. There are two types, and they are:
- Soft relining. This method utilizes a softer material, like a pliable polymer, which is considered more comfortable. It might be recommended if you have sensitive gums.
- Hard relining. This option involves applying additional rigid acrylic to the base, which tends to last longer than softer materials.
Can I Reline My Own Dentures?
It’s possible to purchase kits to try to reline your own teeth, and some patients wonder whether they can save money and time by fixing their own restorations. However, even if you have the correct supplies, you don’t have your dentist’s experience and might make matters worse.
For example, if you use too much or too little material, or misapply it, you might make changes that throw off your bite alignment. This can make wearing your dentures incredibly uncomfortable and can even harm your dental health. Meanwhile, your provider can examine your mouth and bite alignment to repair your prosthetics and improve their fit accurately.
If you’ve had your dentures for several years and are unsure whether they need relining, you can find out by scheduling an appointment with your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center benefit from a team of dentists eager to help families in Gainesville build their happiest, healthiest smiles. They collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including fitting you with customized dentures, to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. Their caring approach and state-of-the-art technology help improve patient comfort while they deliver accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (352) 332-6725.
