What is a denture reline?
As a denture wearer, over time you may experience a natural gradual loss of jawbone structure that will change the shape of your gum tissue where the base of your denture sits. This change of shape may result in your denture not fitting as comfortably and cause tissue discomfort and a less secure fit.
Our doctors may recommend a denture reline to restore the fit and function of your prosthesis. After capturing the current contour of your gum tissue, the underside of your denture base (the part that touches your gum tissue) will be resurfaced or reline with new material restoring the custom comfortable and confident fit you rely on.
Our doctors can reline most dentures during one visit to our office.
Why may denture wearers experience jawbone loss?
Each natural tooth has a root structure that extends into the jawbone and stimulates (helps) blood flow as that tooth and root absorb the forces of talking, chewing, and biting. Dentures are designed to rest on top of the gums, and this does not stimulate the jawbone like your natural tooth root, or an implant (artificial root) does. Without tooth roots to stimulate or support the jawbone it will start to shrink, a process called bone reabsorption. Stimulation related bone loss is less likely to occur if your denture is supported by dental implants, because the implants act as roots like natural teeth and provide structure to support the jawbone, but like natural teeth, bone loss around implants may occur for other reasons.
What contributes to jawbone loss in denture wearers?
- Improperly fitted dentures. When fitted correctly your dentures are designed to distribute the pressure of your biting forces evenly across your jaw which helps to minimize or slow the progression of bone loss.
- Continuous wear over long periods of time. Even when fitted properly dentures are not designed to be worn for long periods of time. Dentures place constant pressure on your tissue and jawbone without a tooth root structure to absorb and support that pressure. Giving your jawbone and gum tissue a break when you can during the day and while sleeping will help preserve your bone structure.
- Infrequently or incompletely cleaned dentures. Frequently and thoroughly cleaning your denture and underlying gum tissue with prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria that can cause gum disease and infection which speeds up the rate at which jawbone loss may occur.
Regular visits with our doctors and team to monitor and assess your dental health and fit of your denture is essential to ensure that your jawbone remains in a healthy condition ensuring the longevity to wear your denture the way it was designed.