Denture Repair Questions: How Are Dentures Rebased?

It is normal for a patient to need denture repair occasionally to fix any problems with fit, bite or comfort. The tissue and shape of the mouth changes as a person ages, and dentures need to be readjusted to properly accommodate such alterations since they were last fitted. Different types of repairs can be applied to the same pair of dentures to restore durability and function. Replacing the appliance altogether is generally a last resort that should not be necessary for most patients.

Common questions about denture repair

Rebasing and relining are usual repair procedures for reconstructing old dentures, but a patient may not understand what those terms mean or what they entail. Here are the answers to some of those questions so a patient can feel prepared entering the dentist’s office for denture repair.

How does a patient know when dentures need repairing?

Patients should visit a dentist regularly (every six months to a year) to get dentures checked for damage and adjustments. Depending on how fast changes occur, some patients may need denture relining every few years, while others will not need it for five to seven years. If dentures become cracked or fractured or if the bite feels off, patients should consult with a dentist to see about fixes. Dentures that get dropped on the floor and break in two or more pieces may be able to be rebased.

What is the difference between relining and rebasing?

Relining involves replacing the soft, flexible material outside the base of the dentures. This is the material that is molded to the mouth to keep it in place. Relining is a fairly simple procedure that only requires a new impression of the patient’s mouth. Rebasing is a more extensive process where the entire base of the dentures is replaced. This is used if the teeth are still in good condition but the base is cracked or broken past the point of repair.

How are dentures rebased?

An impression is taken of the old dentures before the teeth are removed. A new base is constructed based on the impression, and the teeth are placed into it. If the new dentures need to be made in a lab outside of the dentist’s office, a patient may wait several weeks before receiving them. Temporary dentures can be used in the meantime.

Do repairs need to be done by a professional?

It is never advisable for a patient to try to fix dentures at home without the advice of a professional. Do-it-yourself kits exist for denture repair, but these are often only temporary fixes that delay larger problems. A patient may end up damaging dentures further or make an adjustment that creates an improper bite or causes irritation. A dental professional can repair dentures effectively and address any other problems a patient may have missed.

Conclusion

Regular repairs are an essential part of owning dentures. Understanding how dentures may break and how they can be fixed can make conversations with the family dentist considerably easier and steer a patient toward proper denture repair.

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