Are your dentures starting to feel loose or uncomfortable? Don’t worry, it’s a common issue, and it’s usually easy to fix. Dentures are designed to restore function and appearance, but over time, they may need adjustments or repairs due to wear, accidental damage, or changes in the mouth’s structure.
Whether you’re dealing with sore spots, loose-fitting dentures, or a chipped tooth, understanding the difference between denture relines and denture repairs can help you take the right steps to stay comfortable and confident.
Denture Reline vs Denture Repair
Denture relining involves reshaping the underside of a denture to improve its fit. Over time, your gums and jawbone can naturally shrink or shift, especially after tooth extractions or bone loss. A reline helps your full or partial dentures sit snugly again for better comfort and function.
There are two main types of relines:
- Hard denture relines, made from the same material as your denture base, offer a long-lasting, secure fit.
- Soft denture relines use a flexible material that adds extra cushioning—perfect if you have sensitive gums or sore spots.
They feel gentler in the mouth, but usually need replacing more often and require special care when cleaning.
On the other hand, denture repairs are needed when something breaks or cracks. This might include:
- Chipped or missing teeth
- Cracks in the pink acrylic base
- Broken clasps on flexible or partial dentures
This kind of damage can happen from daily wear or unexpected accidents. Luckily, emergency denture repairs are usually quick and affordable, sometimes even done on the same day.
Common Signs You May Need Repairs or Relining
You may not always notice the need for maintenance, but some signs include:
- Loose or slipping dentures
- Speech difficulties or whistling sounds while talking
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Sore spots or gum irritation
- Visible damage like cracks or missing teeth
- Persistent stains or build-up that don’t come off with cleaning
What Happens During a Reline or Repair Appointment?
When you come in for a check-up, your dental prosthetist will carefully examine your mouth and your dentures. Depending on what they find, they might suggest a reline, a repair, or even a denture rebase, which means replacing the base but keeping your existing teeth.
They’ll take impressions if needed and walk you through the process, including how long it will take and how much it will cost. Most of the time, these treatments are quick and can get you back to smiling, eating, and speaking comfortably.
Conclusion
Taking care of your dentures means taking care of your overall comfort and confidence. Whether you need a reline, a repair, or just want to ask questions about digital dentures or custom mouthguards, it’s always better to act sooner rather than later.
At Denture Haus, they know how important it is to have dentures that feel just right. With decades of experience helping Brisbane locals with full dentures and partial dentures, they offer friendly, professional service you can trust.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
