How a DIY Denture Reline Could Spell Disaster

When you first got your dentures, you were hopefully impressed by how well they were designed to fit your mouth. Modern prosthetics are crafted using sophisticated imaging technology and are meticulously designed in accordance with precise specifications, allowing them to adhere firmly to the gums.

However, over time it’s common for the shape of the jaw to change slightly, meaning your dentures may need a reline in order to maintain their natural fit. You might wonder if that’s something you could do yourself; here’s what you should know about that prospect.

What is a Denture Reline?

Broadly speaking, a reline involves changing the shape of your dentures in order to ensure that they fit your gums better. When you get a denture reline from a professional, they will take a new mold of your gums and use it to design you a much better-fitting prosthetic.

There are two kinds of relines: soft and hard. Soft relines are used in circumstances where only mild changes need to be made. These can be completed by many dentists entirely in-office.

Then there are hard relines, which are necessary to make more drastic changes to the fit of your prosthetic. A professional will need to reshape the acrylic itself in order to complete the process, which means that the process will usually need to be done in an external lab.

Can I Do a Denture Reline Myself?

It is strongly recommended that you not attempt to reline your dentures yourself. There are several reasons for this. First of all, the average person simply doesn’t have access to the materials necessary in order to alter dentures. Odds are that the materials you’d use to reline your dentures won’t adhere correctly and will eventually come loose. Worse, you may inadvertently use toxic substances that could cause serious problems when ingested.

This is assuming that one even manages to complete any kind of reline. It’s also incredibly easy to accidentally damage your prosthetic, doing more harm than good in an attempt to reline the teeth.

If you are unhappy with the fit of your dentures, the best thing to do is to talk to a professional. They’ll be able to give you a prosthetic that you can take real pride in.

About the Author

Dr. Mahima Gupta was initially drawn to the dental field by the unique skills the work requires. By combining her artistic eye and her scientific mind, she’s able to craft her patients smiles that truly stand apart. Dr. Gupta is a graduate of the New York University College of Dentistry, and her commitment to continuing her education has earned her the title of Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by less than 6% of dentists in America.

If you have any questions about relining your dentures, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (469) 729-7707.