Tooth loss can be devastating for oral health, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Dentures are a fantastic solution that is both budget-friendly and comprehensive. Whether you’re missing a few teeth in different places or a full dental arch, a denture can help. However, over time, your jawbone and gums will begin to change shape and your denture will need to be adjusted. But is denture relining something you should do yourself?
If you want to know whether relining your denture is possible at home, continue reading.
What Is Denture Relining?
Denture relining involves modifying the inner surface of the denture to improve its fit and stability. This typically involves adding a new layer of material to the denture base to compensate for changes in the gums. Professional denture relining is done using specialized materials and techniques to ensure a comfortable fit every time.
Can I Reline My Dentures Myself?
While relining at home may seem like a great cost-saving measure, there are many risks associated with trying this procedure at home. Here are some things to consider when thinking about denture relining DIY style:
Lack of Expertise
Denture relining requires precise knowledge of dental anatomy and materials. Without proper training and experience, DIY attempts may lead to improper fit, discomfort, or damage to your oral health.
Poor-Quality Materials and Unpleasant Chemicals
Over-the-counter denture reline kits often contain low-quality materials and the process uses a smelly, gummy compound. This is not only unpleasant for many people, but can many times lead to questionable results and oral irritation. This can be especially bad if you happen to be allergic to any of the chemicals in the substance.
It Can Affect Your Bite
The way your teeth fit together is incredibly important for your dental health. A bad bite can cause pain, irritation, and even formation of oral habits like grinding. All these pitfalls come with their own issues like the development of temporomandibular joint disorders or increased risk of gum disease.
You Could Ruin Your Denture
While trying to save money by performing your denture relining yourself, you could accidentally break it or make it unusable. If this happens, you’ll need to buy a new denture and go through the process over again. In the long run, this will cost you more money than you could potentially save.
Consulting a Professional
Given the risks and complexities involved, seeking professional dental care for your denture relining needs is strongly recommended. A qualified dentist can assess your mouth and either perform a denture relining themselves or send the work to a trusted dental lab.
So, while the idea of DIY denture relining may be tempting, the risks far outweigh the rewards. For safe and effective denture care, it is best to entrust the process to your experienced dental professional. They can deliver quality results and ensure your smile satisfaction every time.
About the Practice
Dentures can be life-changing and keeping them fitting well is a priority for Dr. Kristin B. Petulla and Dr. Jennifer L. Kazemi. They know the importance of maintaining a comfortable and well-adjusted denture for your dental health. That’s why they invest in advanced diagnostic tools to detect problems with your oral health and craft a solution tailored to your needs. Call (856) 983-4846 to schedule a denture consultation at Kristin B. Petulla, DDS, or visit the website to explore other services.