When Do Your Dentures Need a Reline or Repair in San Diego?

Dentures can be life-changing for those who’ve lost their natural teeth, restoring smiles, confidence, and everyday comfort. But like anything we rely on daily, they can show signs of wear over time. 

Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, clicking sounds, or changes in fit, knowing when your dentures need a reline or repair can make all the difference in your dental health and peace of mind. At Friendly Family Dental, Dr. Katherine Tan believes that compassion and personalized care shouldn’t end after your dentures are fitted.

Understanding When Dentures Need a Reline

After tooth loss, the shape of your gums and jawbone naturally changes over time. These shifts can result in loose or ill-fitting dentures, which not only feel uncomfortable but may also interfere with your ability to chew or speak clearly. 

A denture reline is a process where the inner surface of the denture is reshaped to better fit the new contours of your mouth. This is often required to maintain a proper fit and avoid unnecessary irritation or oral sores. You might need a denture reline if you’re noticing:

• Increased movement or shifting of dentures while speaking or eating
• Pressure points or sore spots on your gums
• A feeling that your dentures no longer “sit right”
• Changes in your facial appearance or bite alignment

Relining is a normal part of denture maintenance and helps ensure both function and comfort are preserved as your mouth changes with time.

Signs Your Dentures May Need Repair

Even with diligent care, dentures are not indestructible. Accidents happen, and over time, material fatigue can lead to cracks, chips, or fractures. When left unaddressed, damage could worsen or cause injury to your soft tissues. 

That’s why it’s important to know the warning signs and act quickly to prevent more significant issues. Common indicators your dentures may need a repair include:

• Visible cracks or fractures in the acrylic base
• Chipped or broken denture teeth
• Sudden discomfort that wasn’t previously present
• Difficulty chewing or changes in bite position

At Friendly Family Dental, Dr. Katherine Tan is committed to helping you protect your investment and keep your smile functional and beautiful, offering convenient denture repair solutions in our Clairemont office.

How Often Should You Check Your Dentures?

Just like regular dental cleanings, denture care isn’t one and done. Along with routine six-month checkups and teeth cleanings, Dr. Tan recommends bringing your dentures in for a professional evaluation at least once a year, or sooner if you notice persistent discomfort or damage. 

Routine check-ups help ensure your appliance stays fitted properly, and give us a chance to catch any issues before they lead to complications. We typically recommend patients come in if:

• Your dentures are more than a few years old
• There’s new soreness or irritation in your mouth
• Your dentures feel loose or otherwise feel like they do not fit properly
• Your appliances have been dropped or damaged

With routine denture checks both at home and at the dentist, you can maximize the lifespan and comfort of your new smile.

Comfort and Confidence Begin with Proper Denture Care

Relines and repairs can restore more than just fit, they can renew your quality of life. There’s no need to wait until your dentures become unbearable. At Friendly Family Dental in San Diego, we understand that finding trustworthy care can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what type of attention your dentures need. 

That’s why Dr. Katherine Tan approaches every patient with compassion and clarity, making your comfort our top priority. We also make denture care more accessible with insurance-friendly options, flexible financing, and our $129 new patient special. We believe that everyone deserves to smile with confidence in a space that feels like home!

Schedule Your Denture Evaluation Today in San Diego

If your dentures aren’t fitting quite like they used to or you’ve noticed signs of damage, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Friendly Family Dental. Dr. Katherine Tan is here to help you get back to smiling comfortably with personalized, transparent care. Call us at (858) 274-1219 to book an appointment or stop by our gentle, welcoming Clairemont dental office. We’d love to care for your smile like it’s our own.