Denture Relining vs Denture Rebasing

If your dentures no longer fit as well as they used to, your dentist might suggest either denture relining or denture rebasing. Although these two procedures sound similar, they are in fact completely different processes. Read on to learn about the differences between denture relining and denture rebasing so that you can decide which one is right for you.

What Is Denture Relining?

Denture relining is a common procedure in which a dental technician replaces the lining of the dentures to improve their fit in your mouth. Most denture users need regular relines throughout their lives due to subtle changes in the shape of the mouth, gums and supporting bone that occur as you age.

Denture relining first involves roughening the inner part of the denture to create texture. Next, a dentist or dental technician applies adhesive to the inner part of the denture and applies a new rubber lining. Dentists use a mould to ensure that the new lining perfectly corresponds to the shape of your mouth to ensure a comfortable fit.

What Is Denture Rebasing?

Denture rebasing is a more involved and less common process than denture relining. In the dental lab, a technician removes almost all of the pink acrylic material that makes up the base of the denture. They then replace this material with new acrylic that is in better condition.

How to Choose Between Denture Relining and Rebasing

Denture relining is sufficient to improve the fit of most full sets of dentures. It is a quicker and less complicated procedure than rebasing, so it is used as long as the acrylic base of the dentures is in good enough condition to support it.

Denture rebasing is the best option when the acrylic material that supports the dentures has been damaged, either through wear and tear or in an accident. Dentists recommend rebasing less often than denture relining because it takes longer, costs more, and is usually not necessary.

What About Partial Dentures?

Partial dentures are used by people who are missing only some of their teeth. Denture relining is common, but rebasing is rarely recommended for this type of dentures.

Is Relining or Rebasing Right For You?

If you are not sure whether your dentures need to be relined or rebased, ask your dentist for advice. Your dentist can examine the dentures, assess the level of damage to the base, and let you know which process is most appropriate.