In today’s economy, it makes sense why people are so tempted to purchase a DIY denture relining kit online. The truth is, although this might save you a few dollars today, it’ll likely cost you hundreds down the road. Read on to learn why trying to reline your dentures yourself isn’t a good idea and how professional relining can help support your long-term oral health.
How to Tell if Your Dentures Need to Be Relined
Your dentures won’t last you forever. Because your jawbone structure is constantly remodeling itself due to tooth loss and aging, it’s likely that you’ll notice changes in the fit of your restoration over time. Some people need to have theirs relined every year, while others may be able to get away with doing it every two years. The way you can tell whether yours need to be is by looking out for the following common signs:
- You have sores or irritation in certain areas of your mouth as a result of ill-fitting dentures.
- You have difficulty chewing food due to slipping and shifting dentures.
- It has been at least two years since you last had your dentures professionally relined.
- You have developed thrush, or an oral fungal infection.
What is Denture Relining?
There are two types of relining that may be required based on your symptoms. A soft reline can typically be completed chairside by your dentist. It involves incorporating a layer of liquid polymer to the inner side of them so they’re more comfortable and functional.
A hard reline is the second type of relining. This is typically completed by a laboratory, requiring your dentures to be sent to a different facility. Instead of utilizing a liquid polymer, the lab technician will use a harder acrylic material that matches the actual base of the denture. These typically last longer than soft relines.
Can You Reline Your Own Dentures?
In short, yes, you can technically try to reline your own dentures, but that isn’t advised. Not only will it likely not last, but it can also result in worsening thrush, oral sores, and other signs of ill-fitting dentures in the long-run. Ultimately, it could end up costing you much more in additional problems than it would to just have your dentures relined professionally.
Your dentist will be able to examine your mouth thoroughly and adjust the fit of your dentures using specialized equipment and materials that you simply can’t get access to yourself. This ensures a better, longer lasting result as well as peace of mind that your dentures fit correctly.
Although it may be tempting to cut the expense of a denture reline out of your budget by getting a DIY kit online, it will only end up costing you more in the future. There are some things in life that you shouldn’t sacrifice, like access to a comfortable and functional denture!
About the Practice
Dr. Steve Napier and Dr. Joseph Nierzwicki bring years of experience to Grand Dental – Franklin Park. Their extensive training and commitment to offering high-quality, reliable care to patients in and around Chicago have made them a trusted, go-to provider for thousands of patients. For questions or to schedule a denture relining, visit Grand Dental – Franklin Park’s website or call 847-455-8383.