Denture relines for a better fit

When the base of a denture rubs against your gums, it’s a sign your denture may need to be resurfaced. A denture reline is the procedure that resurfaces it. A reline adapts the structure of your denture to better fit the shape of your mouth and gums with the following five steps:

Step 1: Initial examination
Your dentist examines your dentures and your oral tissue to determine if a reline is needed. If a reline is needed, they will determine which type is most suitable for you.

Step 2: Denture preparation
First, your dentist will clean your dentures. Then, they may take impressions of your gums and the inside of the dentures, depending on the type of reline you need.

Step 3: Material application (hard relines and soft relines)

• For hard relines: A new layer of acrylic is applied to the inside of the denture based on the impressions. The denture is then placed back in your mouth to ensure a proper fit. Adjustments may be made as needed.
  

• For soft relines: A soft material is applied to the denture, which is then placed in your mouth to mold to the shape of your gums. This material may set quickly or require a few hours to adapt.

Step 4: Final adjustments
Once the material has set, your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments to make sure your dentures are comfortable and functional.

Step 5: Follow-up appointment
Your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check the fit and make any further adjustments if needed.

At your annual visit, your dentist can determine if you need your dentures relined. You can always make an appointment at your local Aspen Dental right away if you experience any of these issues:

• Poor fit: Your dentures are beginning to feel loose​

• Damaged denture: You notice cracks, chips or other damage​

• Difficulty eating: You’re finding it difficult to chew​

• Sores or infection: You experience a sore spot or infection

It’s generally recommended to have a reline every 1 to 2 years. You may need a reline sooner depending on individual factors and changes in your mouth such as:

• The type of dentures you have

• Changes in your oral health (shifting gums or bone structure)

• How well your dentures fit (if you notice discomfort or an unstable fit)

Lifespan of a complete denture reline vs. partial denture reline
For complete dentures, which replace all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, more frequent relining may be necessary due to the broader surface area they cover and the natural changes in the gum and bone over time.

Partial dentures, which replace only a few teeth while leaving some natural teeth in place, might require relining less often but still need attention if changes to the remaining natural teeth or gums occur.

Partial denture relining and full denture relining are both crucial for maintaining the comfort and effectiveness of dentures, but they address different needs depending on the type of denture you have.

What is a partial denture reline?

• Specifically for dentures that replace only a few missing teeth while keeping some natural teeth.

• Focused on the areas of the denture that interact with your remaining natural teeth and gums, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit around both.

• May be needed periodically, particularly if there are changes in the alignment of your natural teeth or the shape of your gums.​

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What is a full denture reline?

• Applies to complete dentures that replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.

• Addresses the entire surface of the denture that comes into contact with the gums, correcting any fit issues that arise due to changes in the gum tissue and jawbone over time. 

• Typically require more frequent relining compared to partial dentures because they cover a larger area and are more susceptible to significant changes in the mouth’s structure.
  
  

Both types of relining are essential for ensuring your dentures remain comfortable and functional, and it’s best to consult with your Aspen Dental team for personalized care and advice.

Yes, investing in a denture reline can significantly improve your quality of life by enhancing the fit, comfort and functionality of your dentures.

Over time, dentures can become loose or uncomfortable due to changes in your gums or jawbone. A denture reline adjusts the inner surface of your dentures to better fit the current shape of your mouth, which can alleviate issues like sore spots and difficulty chewing.​
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Get a faster denture reline with Aspen Dental’s on-site labs
At Aspen Dental, the reline process is made convenient with our onsite labs. This allows us to quickly perform adjustments or take new impressions to ensure your dentures fit perfectly.

With the ability to refine your dentures right on site, you benefit from a faster turnaround time, meaning you can get in, get out, and get smiling with renewed comfort and confidence.

​The cost of a denture reline at Aspen Dental can vary depending on:

• The type of reline needed

• Your individual requirements

• Whether it’s a soft or hard reline

• The complexity of the adjustment

At Aspen Dental, we strive to make denture care accessible and affordable. We offer flexible payment options, work with most insurance plans and can provide our Aspen Dental Savings Plan to help manage costs. We do not accept Medicaid.

For the most accurate and personalized pricing information, we recommend scheduling a consultation at your nearest Aspen Dental office. Your team will assess your needs and provide a clear cost estimate based on your specific situation.