Over time, your dentures may no longer fit as snugly as they once did. This is a common occurrence, but it’s important to address it promptly to avoid discomfort or oral health complications. At Barrera Advanced Dentistry in Torrance, we offer professional denture relining services to restore the fit of your dentures. Knowing the signs that you need a reline can help you seek treatment early and avoid potential problems.
1. Loose or Shifting Dentures
One of the most obvious signs that you need a denture reline is when your dentures start feeling loose or begin shifting in your mouth. Dentures are designed to fit the contours of your gums and jawbone, but as the structure of your mouth changes over time, the fit may become compromised. This can cause your dentures to move around, making it difficult to speak or chew properly. Using dental adhesives may provide a temporary fix, but for a long-lasting solution, a denture reline is necessary.
2. Sore Spots or Irritation
When dentures no longer fit properly, they can cause friction against the gums, leading to painful sore spots or irritation. If you notice discomfort or red areas on your gums, this could be a sign that your dentures are no longer aligning with the natural shape of your mouth. Ignoring this can lead to more serious issues like gum inflammation or mouth sores. A soft reline can provide relief by adding a cushioned layer between the denture and your gums, reducing irritation and promoting comfort.
3. Difficulty Eating
Are you struggling to eat certain foods that were once easy to chew? As your dentures lose their fit, chewing becomes more difficult, especially with harder foods. This can affect your diet and overall nutrition. Denture relining helps restore the snug fit, making it easier to enjoy your meals without discomfort or frustration. For a more durable and secure fit, hard relining is often recommended, as it involves creating a custom mold of your jaw to reline the dentures with a long-lasting, hard plastic.
4. Changes in Your Jaw Shape
The shape of your jaw changes naturally over time due to bone loss, especially if you wear dentures. This process can cause your dentures to become misaligned. If you’ve noticed significant changes in the fit of your dentures or discomfort in your jaw, it’s time to consider a reline. Hard relining is often the best solution for longer-lasting adjustments, as it re-molds the denture to match the new shape of your jaw. However, this process requires a brief period without your dentures while they are sent to a lab for customization.
5. Bad Breath or a Bad Taste
A poorly fitting denture can allow food particles to get trapped underneath, which can lead to bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. This not only affects your oral hygiene but can also lead to infections or gum disease if left untreated. A proper reline ensures a tight seal between the dentures and your gums, helping to prevent food from getting stuck and maintaining a clean, healthy mouth.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore Denture Relining
Ignoring the need for a denture reline can lead to more than just discomfort. Constant friction between your dentures and gums can increase your risk of inflammation, gum infections, and even oral cancer in some cases. Properly fitted dentures are essential for maintaining both comfort and oral health.
At Barrera Advanced Dentistry, we offer both soft and hard relining services to suit your needs. A soft reline is ideal for those with sensitive gums, providing immediate relief, while a hard reline offers a more durable, long-term solution for denture wearers.
FAQ About Denture Relining
Q: How often should I get my dentures relined?
A: Dentures typically need to be relined every 1-2 years, depending on how your mouth changes. Regular dental checkups can help determine the best time for a reline.
Q: Is a denture reline painful?
A: No, the relining process is not painful. Whether you choose a soft or hard reline, the goal is to make your dentures fit more comfortably.
Q: How long does a hard reline take?
A: A hard reline requires sending your dentures to a lab, which can take a few days. During this time, you will need to be without your dentures.
Q: Can I still use dental adhesive after a reline?
A: While relining improves the fit of your dentures, some patients may still choose to use a small amount of adhesive for added security.
Call Barrera Advanced Dentistry Today!
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Barrera Advanced Dentistry in Torrance to schedule a consultation and get your dentures relined for a comfortable and secure fit. Call us today to learn more about our denture services near you.
Posted on behalf of Barrera Advanced Dentistry