Name of the Procedure:

RELINE COMPLETE MAXILLARY DENTURE (CHAIRSIDE) Common names: Denture relining, Chairside denture reline
Technical/medical term: Maxillary denture reline

Summary

In layman's terms, a chairside reline of a complete maxillary denture involves adding new material to the inside of an upper set of dentures to ensure a snug fit. This procedure is typically done in the dental office while the patient waits.

Purpose

• Medical conditions or problems it addresses: The procedure corrects the fit of upper dentures that have become loose or uncomfortable due to changes in the mouth's shape.
• Goals or expected outcomes: The main goal is to improve the fit and comfort of the dentures, ensuring they function correctly and do not cause irritation.

Indications

• Specific symptoms or conditions: Loose or ill-fitting upper dentures, discomfort or pain caused by denture movement, difficulty chewing due to poor denture fit.
• Patient criteria or factors: Patients with complete maxillary dentures experiencing fit issues, those with changes in the oral cavity due to bone resorption or tissue changes.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: Typically, no special preparation is required, although it's advisable to have clean dentures and a clean mouth.
• Diagnostic tests or assessments: The dentist will assess the current fit of the dentures and the oral cavity's condition.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The dentist evaluates the fit of the current dentures.
2. Preparation of Dentures: The inside of the dentures is cleaned and any necessary adjustments are made.
3. Application of Material: A soft or hard relining material is applied to the inside surface of the dentures.
4. Molding: The patient bites down or holds the dentures in place to mold the new material to the shape of the gums.
5. Curing: The material is allowed to set, which may involve light or heat curing depending on the type of material used.
6. Final Adjustments: The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
   • Tools, equipment, or technology used: Dental relining material, dental tools for preparation and adjustment, possibly a light or heat curing device.
   • Anesthesia or sedation: Usually, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a dental office or clinic.

Personnel

• Healthcare professionals involved: Primarily a dentist, possibly assisted by dental hygienists or dental assistants.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor discomfort or soreness as the patient adjusts to the relined denture.
• Rare risks: Allergic reactions to the reline material, improper fitting causing ongoing discomfort.

Benefits

• Expected benefits: Improved fit and comfort of the dentures, better chewing and speech, reduced irritation or sores.
• How soon benefits might be realized: Most patients experience immediate improvement in fit and comfort.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care and instructions: Patients may be advised to wear the dentures continuously for a day or two to allow proper adaptation.
• Expected recovery time: Minimal to no recovery time; most patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Restrictions or follow-up appointments: Follow-up visit may be necessary to ensure proper fit and comfort.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Denture adhesives, new denture fabrication, soft linings for temporary relief.
• Pros and cons: Reline is less invasive and more cost-effective compared to fabricating new dentures, but may not be a permanent solution if underlying oral changes continue.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: The patient may feel mild pressure but generally no pain.
• After the procedure: Patients may feel some initial tightness or slight discomfort as they adjust, which typically resolves quickly. Pain management usually is not needed, but over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken if discomfort occurs.