Relines and Repairs

Relines & Rebases – Over time, you may find that your denture isn’t fitting as snugly as it once did. Gum tissues can shrink or change (especially in the first few years after tooth loss, or due to weight loss, aging, etc.), causing your denture to feel loose. Rather than making a whole new denture, we can often refit your existing denture so it holds properly again. This is done through a reline or rebase procedure.

Denture Reline: A reline involves adding new base material to the tissue side of your denture to restore a close, comfortable fit. We take an impression using your denture as a tray, then process a fresh layer of acrylic inside the denture. Relining does not change the look of your denture (the teeth remain as they are) – it only affects the fit on your gums. Relines are typically needed when your gums and bone have resorbed (shrunken) after tooth extractions or over years of denture wear. For example, if it’s been a few years and your denture has become loose, a reline can tighten it up. Most dentures benefit from a reline every 2 years or so to maintain optimal fit as your mouth changes.

At UCH Denture Clinic, we can usually complete a same-day reline: you bring your denture in the morning, we reline it in our lab, and you have it back later that day – good as new!

Denture Rebase: A rebase is similar to a reline but more extensive. We replace the entire pink acrylic base of your denture with new acrylic, while keeping your existing denture teeth. Essentially, it’s like building a new denture base around the old teeth. Rebasing is recommended when the denture base is old, cracked, or discolored, but the teeth on the denture are still in good condition and not overly worn. This can happen if, for instance, you’ve worn the denture for many years. Instead of making a brand-new denture, rebasing gives you a refreshed, stronger base and can save cost by reusing the teeth you’re used to. In most cases, a rebase can also be done in one day with an appointment.

After a reline or rebase, you should notice a big improvement in how your denture fits – no more slipping or irritation from looseness. Your Denturist will ensure that the rebased or relined denture feels comfortable and secure. If you think your denture might need refitting, come in for an assessment. We’ll be happy to evaluate whether a reline, rebase, or a new denture is the best solution to get you smiling comfortably again.

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