Improve Comfort and Fit with Denture Relining at Our Lansing Dental Office
Over time, dentures can start to feel loose or uncomfortable. This doesn’t mean you need an entirely new set of dentures and in many cases, a denture reline can restore a secure fit and improve comfort. At Kim Dentistry in Lansing, MI, Dr. Caroline Kim, a trusted restorative dentist in Lansing, MI, helps patients in East Lansing, Okemos, Holt, and nearby areas enjoy a better fit and longer-lasting dentures through professional denture relining services.
If you’re experiencing some discomfort while wearing your dentures, contact our Lansing dental office by calling (517) 886-1100.
Why Choose Kim Dentistry for Denture Relining in Lansing, MI
Patients in Lansing, East Lansing, Holt, and Okemos trust Dr. Caroline Kim for gentle, precise denture care. At Kim Dentistry, we offer:
- Customized relining solutions based on your comfort needs
- Same-day soft relines for quick relief
- Advanced techniques and materials for durability and natural function
- Compassionate, patient-focused care from a top dentist in Lansing, MI
What Is Denture Relining?
Denture relining is the process of reshaping the underside of your existing dentures to better fit the changing contours of your gums and jawbone. As time passes, bone and gum tissue naturally shrink, which can cause dentures to loosen and slip. A reline involves adding new material to the base of the denture to restore stability without replacing the entire appliance.
Types of Denture Relines
Hard Reline
A hard reline replaces the acrylic base of your denture with a new, durable layer of acrylic. This is a longer-lasting solution and usually performed in-office.
Soft Reline
Soft relines are made with a more flexible material that cushions sensitive gums. They are ideal for patients with tender or thin gum tissue who experience frequent sore spots. However, they may need to be replaced more often than hard relines.
Signs You May Need a Denture Reline
It isn’t always obvious when it’s time to reline your dentures. Many patients wait until discomfort becomes severe, but early signs can help you address the issue before it worsens. You may need a reline if you notice:
- Loose or Slipping Dentures: If your dentures no longer feel secure and shift when you talk, laugh, or eat, it’s time for an adjustment.
- Sore Spots or Gum Irritation: Rubbing and pressure points can cause pain, swelling, or even small ulcers on your gums.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: If eating is uncomfortable or you’ve noticed changes in your speech, your dentures may not be fitting correctly.
- Changes in Facial Appearance: Loose dentures can make your cheeks look sunken or cause your bite to collapse, altering your facial structure.
- Clicking Sounds: If your dentures make noise when you talk or chew, it’s a sign they’re not fitting snugly against your gums.
- Recent Oral Changes: Weight loss, aging, or natural bone resorption can affect how your dentures sit. Even if they don’t feel painful yet, a reline may be needed.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kim by calling (517) 886-1100. Our dental team can help restore comfort and prevent further oral health issues.
The Denture Relining Process at Kim Dentistry
Relining dentures is a straightforward procedure that typically takes one visit:
- Examination – Dr. Kim evaluates the fit of your current dentures and the condition of your gums.
- Impression – A mold of your gums is taken using your existing dentures as a base.
- Reshaping – A new lining material is added to the base of your dentures to restore a snug fit.
- Adjustment – Dr. Kim makes minor refinements to ensure comfort and stability.
In some cases, dentures may need to be sent to a dental lab for a more extensive reline, which can take a few days.
How Often Should Dentures Be Relined?
Most dentures should be relined every 2–3 years. However, the exact timing depends on:
- The health and shape of your gums and jawbone
- How well your dentures are cared for
- Whether you’ve experienced significant weight changes or oral health changes
Dr. Kim will recommend the best schedule for your individual needs during routine checkups.
Caring for Relined Dentures
To keep your relined dentures comfortable and long-lasting:
- Brush daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner
- Soak dentures overnight in water or a denture solution
- Avoid bending or dropping dentures, as this may damage the new lining
- Visit your Lansing dentist regularly for adjustments and oral health exams
Frequently Asked Questions
Dentures sit directly on your gums, which are supported by the jawbone. Over time, the jawbone naturally shrinks in a process called resorption, and the gum tissue changes shape as well. This can cause dentures to loosen, slip, or create sore spots. Even the best-made dentures will eventually require a reline to keep them fitting properly.
In many cases, a reline can be completed in a single appointment at Kim Dentistry. A soft reline is often done chairside and may only take an hour. For a hard reline, your dentures may need to be sent to a dental lab, which can take one to a few days. Dr. Kim will let you know what to expect during your consultation.
No, a reline is designed to improve the fit of dentures, not repair cracks or breaks in the base or teeth. If your dentures are damaged, Dr. Kim may recommend a professional denture repair or, in some cases, a replacement. Relining is best for well-maintained dentures that have simply become loose over time.
The cost of a denture reline depends on the type (soft, hard, or temporary) and whether lab work is required. Relining is generally more affordable than replacing dentures completely. At Kim Dentistry, we provide clear estimates and offer flexible financing options to help make treatment accessible for patients in Lansing, East Lansing, Holt, and Okemos.
Restore Comfort With Professional Denture Relining in Lansing
Loose or uncomfortable dentures don’t mean you need to start over. With professional denture relining at Kim Dentistry, Dr. Caroline Kim helps patients in Lansing, East Lansing, Holt, and Okemos enjoy secure, comfortable dentures once again.
Contact our Lansing, MI dentist by calling (517) 886-1100 to schedule your denture reline appointment and get back to smiling, eating, and speaking with confidence.
