Dentures are more realistic than ever before, thanks to new technologies and materials. Your denture should rest on your gums, only relying on suction to stay in place. However, your denture might lose its snug fit over time, which is completely normal, but it isn’t anything to ignore. Poor-fitting dentures can affect your dental health and overall wellness. It will also cause you to need a replacement sooner. You can ensure your denture continues to fit like a glove by having it relined. Here’s what you can expect when relining your denture.
Why Do Dentures Need Relining?
Losing a tooth can cause your jawbone to shrink by up to 25% within the first year because it isn’t being stimulated by the root. Your bone will continue to deteriorate as time passes. Although dentures replace lost teeth, they don’t treat the tooth roots, so they can’t stop bone loss.
Over time, the shape of your mouth will change, which can cause your dentures to slip or irritate your gums. If your dentures aren’t relined, you can be at risk of ulcers, irritation, fungal infections, and tissue overgrowth.
Your oral health is connected to your overall well-being. A decline in your dental health can increase your risk of infections. Researchers have also found an added risk of oral cancer from ill-fitting dentures.
Uneven pressure distribution can cause your dentures to crack, which can cause you to require repairs or replacements.
How Are Dentures Relined?
Relining dentures is a process that adds material to the underside of your denture to ensure it “hugs” your gums. This accommodates the changes to your jawbone and soft tissues to maintain a comfortable, functional fit.
If you visit your dentist regularly, the adjustments should be minor and can be performed in-office. However, if major changes have occurred since your last dental visit, your denture might need to be sent to a lab to perform the relining.
You can prevent going without any teeth by visiting your dentist every 6 months for a dental checkup. They’ll keep your mouth healthy to support your overall wellness. Your dental team will clean and maintain your dentures to get the most from your investment.
Benefit from Unmatched Support
You can stop slipping and irritation for good by adding the support of dental implants. Implant posts are placed into your jawbone to serve as new tooth roots. This will keep your jaw strong and healthy to stop bone loss. Your bone will fuse to the implants, allowing you to enjoy the next best thing to real teeth. Not to mention, dental implants have over a 95% success rate and can last for decades. You’ll save time and money by investing in the most successful solution for tooth loss.
About Dr. Rose Johnson
Dr. Johnson achieved her dental degree at the University of Colorado and has completed additional training in various specialties, like TMJ and Functional Occlusion, and dental implants. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (904) 675-1735.