Over time, it is common for your dentures to face issues. These could be the appearance of cracks, the debonding of a tooth or the fit feeling less snug than it once was. When problems arise, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s worth fixing your denture or whether it would be better to seek a replacement.
If you are wondering whether a quick repair or relining will save you money, or whether you should opt for a full replacement, you are not alone. Here’s everything you need to know.
Recognising the Signs Your Dentures Need Professional Repair
When it comes to dentures, there are two signs that your dentures are in need of professional repair. The first are obvious physical issues, such as the debonding of a tooth or the appearance of cracks and chips. And although these don’t always mean that your dentures need a professional repair, they can develop into more significant issues if left unaddressed. It’s recommended to seek the advice of a professional for peace of mind if you notice these signs.
The other type of sign that your dentures are in need of repair relates more to comfort and quality of life. If you notice that your denture isn’t fitting as flawlessly as before, it shifts or loosens throughout the day, or gives you difficulty when you are eating or speaking, it could be a sign that a repair is needed. In these instances, it’s recommended to visit your dental clinic for a check-up.
Soft vs. Hard Reline: What to Expect From the Relining Process
A reline is a common occurrence for denture wearers. Relines are the solution for dentures when they begin to fit poorly. There are two options that you can choose from, a soft reline and a hard reline. In both cases, your dental professional will begin by removing some of the pink acrylic from your denture and replacing it with a putty that is used to take an impression of your mouth.
Once this hardens, they will replicate the shape. For a hard reline, they will use a material that is similar to the pink acrylic in strength. For a soft reline, a softer polymer is used.
A hard reline is often a more permanent solution, lasting several years in some cases, but can take longer to complete as your clinic may need to send your dentures to a laboratory to fix. On the contrary, a soft reline can often be completed in-clinic, but the lifespan is shorter. In most cases, another reline is required within 18 months.
How Often Should You Get Your Dentures Checked and Adjusted?
It’s generally recommended to see your dentist for denture check-ups and adjustments at least once a year, but several factors will have an influence on this timescale. If you are in your initial adjustment period, it’s likely that your dentist will request check-ups every few months to make sure that your dentures are fitting optimally. And if you notice any issues, such as physical issues or discomfort, you may require more frequent check-ups.
Emergency Denture Solutions in Kalgoorlie
It’s important to get issues checked as soon as possible to avoid them worsening. Even minor imperfections can lead to sore spots or larger issues, so seeking professional help as soon as you notice them is recommended.
For emergency denture solutions in Kalgoorlie, get in touch with the experts at Goldfields Family Dental. Open 7 days a week, we’re here when you need us most.