If your dentures feel a little loose, you may be looking for ways to make them fit better. For example, you can use a denture adhesive to stick your dentures in more firmly or you can have them relined to adjust their fit. The option you ultimately choose may depend on the age of your dentures and how much your mouth has changed since you originally started wearing them.

When to Use a Denture Adhesive

Typically, adhesives work best on dentures that still fit quite well, according to Smile. The aim of an adhesive is to make a denture stick just that little bit better. Often, this is all about getting an extra confidence boost when you wear your dentures so that you don't have to worry about them slipping or moving out of place.

For example, if you worry that your dentures may move around or look obvious when you're eating out, then adding an adhesive may make you feel more confident that your dentures will stay where they are supposed to. This may also make it easier for you to eat what you want and to enjoy your meal.

When to Have Dentures Relined

Over time, dentures usually stop fitting as well as they did originally. This isn't down to the dentures themselves in most cases but is often caused by changes in the structure of your mouth. When you lose your natural teeth, your gums and bones change shape and, after a few years, you may find that your dentures aren't a perfect match for the shape of your mouth any longer.

Once you reach this stage, according to Smile, denture adhesives aren't likely to help much. Your dentures may have become too loose for an adhesive to stick them into place securely; in some cases, they may even become uncomfortable or painful to wear. An adhesive won't stop your dentures rubbing on your mouth, and you may want to consider having them relined to get a better fit.

If your dentures are very loose or if you find that an adhesive just doesn't help any longer, your dentist can use a resin to build up your plate to fit the current shape of your mouth. After a reline, you should find that your dentures fit correctly again, making them and you feel more comfortable.

Even though you no longer have your natural teeth, it's still important to have regular dental check-ups when you have dentures. Your dentist can keep an eye on your oral health and the fit of your dentures, helping you decide when a reline may be useful.

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