If you wear dentures, you know how much they impact your daily comfort and confidence. But what happens when your once-perfect fit starts to feel... off? That's where denture relining comes in.

In this post, we'll explain exactly what denture relining is, why it's necessary, how it works, and how it helps you get more life—and comfort—out of your dentures.

Key Takeaways

✔ Denture relining restores the fit and comfort of your existing dentures by reshaping the base to match your current gums.

✔ It's a cost-effective alternative to full replacement, especially when the teeth and structure are still in good condition.

✔ There are soft, hard, and temporary relines, each suited to different needs and sensitivities.

✔ Benefits include better fit, improved chewing, reduced irritation, and longer denture lifespan.

✔ Dentures should generally be relined every 1–2 years, depending on how your mouth changes over time.

✔ Professional relining is always recommended over DIY kits for safety, effectiveness, and long-term results.




What Does It Mean to Reline Dentures?

Relining dentures is the process of reshaping the underside of your denture to fit the current contours of your gums better.

Instead of replacing your entire denture, your dentist adjusts the base so it rests more securely and comfortably in your mouth. It's a cost-effective solution for a common issue and can make a big difference in how your dentures feel.

Why Do Dentures Need to Be Relined?

Over time, the shape of your mouth changes. It's not your imagination—bone loss, gum shrinkage, weight changes, and even the natural aging process can all affect the fit of your dentures.

Common signs you might need a reline:

  • Your dentures feel loose or slip when talking or eating
  • You develop sore spots or irritation on your gums
  • Food gets trapped under your dentures
  • You're relying more on adhesive than you used to

When dentures no longer fit properly, it's more than a nuisance—it can lead to discomfort, poor nutrition, and infections if left unaddressed.

Types of Denture Relining

There are three types of denture relining. They include:

1. Soft Reline

A soft reline uses a pliable, cushioned material that provides extra comfort—especially for patients with tender gums or recent tooth extractions.

Pros:

  • Gentle on sensitive mouths
  • It can often be done in-office
  • Provides relief from sore spots

Cons:

  • Wears out more quickly
  • Needs to be replaced more frequently

This is often the go-to option if your gums are healing or particularly sensitive.

2. Hard Reline

A hard reline is more permanent and durable. It uses a firm material similar to the denture base, and it's typically sent to a dental lab for processing.

Pros:

  • Longer-lasting
  • Provides a snug, secure fit

Cons:

  • May require being without your dentures for a day or more
  • Not ideal for patients with very sensitive gums

Hard relines are suitable for long-term comfort and stability.

3. Temporary or In-Office Reline

Need a quick fix? A temporary or chairside reline can be done in the office during a single visit. It's not as long-lasting but great in a pinch, especially if you're waiting for lab work or new dentures.

Denture Relining vs. Denture Replacement

So when do you reline, and when do you replace?

Reline your dentures if:

  • The teeth and structure are still in good shape
  • You're experiencing minor fit issues
  • You want to extend the life of your current dentures

Replace your dentures if:

  • They're cracked, worn down, or broken
  • You've had them for 5–10 years
  • Your bite or facial structure has changed significantly

Relining is like tuning your dentures, while replacing them is like buying a new car. Both have their place, depending on the condition of your current set.

What to Expect During the Denture Reline Process

Here's a quick overview of how it works:

  1. Evaluation: Your dentist examines your gums and current denture fit.
  2. Impression: An impression of your mouth is taken to capture your new gum shape.
  3. Processing:
    • For soft relines the material is applied directly to your denture.
    • The denture is sent to a lab with your new impression for hard relines.
  4. Adjustment & Fit: Once relined, your dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure a snug, comfortable fit.

In-office relines can be completed on the same day. Lab relines may take 1–2 days, so plan accordingly.

Benefits of Relining Dentures

Relining can greatly impact your oral health, function, and even confidence. Here's a deeper look at the major benefits:

1. Improved Comfort

When your dentures no longer match the shape of your gums, you may feel pressure points, rubbing, or pinching that leads to soreness. A reline reshapes the base to match your current anatomy, eliminating discomfort and preventing ulcers or painful friction spots.

2. Better Fit and Stability

Loose dentures can shift when you talk, eat, or laugh—which is frustrating and sometimes embarrassing. A properly relined denture sits securely in your mouth, allowing you to chew and speak with more confidence and less movement. This also reduces your reliance on adhesive products.

3. Enhanced Chewing and Digestion

Let's face it: chewing with loose dentures is difficult. You might start avoiding certain foods or not chewing thoroughly, which impacts your digestion. A snug fit from relining helps restore your ability to eat a wider variety of foods comfortably and digest them properly.

4. Reduced Risk of Gum Irritation and Infections

When dentures don't fit right, they rub against the gums, causing inflammation, sores, or even fungal infections. By relining the denture to fit smoothly and evenly, you reduce the risk of these oral health issues—and give your gums a chance to heal and stay healthy.

5. Preserves Jawbone Health

Loose dentures contribute to accelerated bone resorption by putting uneven pressure on your jawbone. A relined denture helps distribute bite forces more evenly, which can slow bone loss and help maintain your facial structure longer.

6. Extends the Life of Your Dentures

Replacing dentures can be costly and time-consuming. Relining offers a practical, affordable way to get more years out of your existing dentures without sacrificing comfort or performance.

7. Boosts Confidence and Quality of Life

Comfortable, well-fitting dentures make everyday life easier—from eating meals with loved ones to speaking clearly in public. A reline can restore your confidence and help you smile freely again.

How Often Should Dentures Be Relined?

On average, dentures should be relined every 1 to 2 years, but that can vary depending on your unique oral anatomy, health changes, and wear habits.

Regular dental checkups are key—your dentist can spot fit issues early and recommend a reline before major discomfort sets in.

Can You Reline Dentures at Home?

We get it—DIY sounds tempting. There are over-the-counter reline kits available, but here's the truth:

  • They offer a temporary fix, not a long-term solution
  • Improper use can damage your denture or lead to a poor fit
  • They don't replace the precision and safety of a professional reline

If you're in a bind, a kit might help in the short term—but it's best to see a professional as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts 

Relining dentures is a smart, affordable way to restore comfort, function, and confidence, without starting from scratch. Whether you opt for a soft, hard, or temporary reline, the key is not to ignore the signs that your dentures need attention.

If your dentures are slipping, rubbing, or just don't feel right, don't tough it out. Schedule a visit with your dentist and ask about relining options. Your smile—and your comfort—are worth it.