Dentures are lined through a process known as relining, which ensures a snug and comfortable fit against the wearer's gums. This process involves creating a new, soft inner surface for the denture plate.
The Denture Reline Process Explained
The reline process is crucial for maintaining the stability and comfort of dentures as the wearer's jawbone and gum tissue naturally change over time. It essentially updates the denture's fit without requiring an entirely new set of dentures.
The general steps involved in relining dentures are as follows:
- Impression Taking: An impression is first taken of the existing denture. This captures the exact contours of the denture's surface that rests against the gums.
- Liner Creation: A new liner is then created using a soft material. This material is specifically chosen to provide comfort and a tight seal.
- Snug Fit Ensuring: The primary goal during the creation of this new liner is to ensure it will fit snugly and accurately against the denture plate, mirroring the latest contours of the patient's oral tissues.
- Liner Insertion: Once the new liner is prepared, it is carefully inserted into the denture.
- Fit Verification: Finally, the fit of the newly lined denture is meticulously checked to confirm it provides optimal comfort, stability, and retention for the patient.
This process, typically performed by a dental professional, helps to re-establish the proper fit, preventing discomfort, food trapping, and improving the overall function of the denture.