When is a denture reline indicated?

A denture reline is indicated when the ridges resorb. As the alveolar bone underneath the dentures changes due to natural processes such as aging or tooth loss, the shape and size of the supporting tissue can alter significantly. This resorption can lead to a poor fit of the denture over time as it no longer conforms to the current shape of the ridges. A reline procedure adjusts the denture base to fit the new contours of the ridges, providing better stability and comfort for the patient.

The other options, while they may present issues related to denture wear, do not specifically indicate the need for a reline. An uneven bite could be addressed with adjustments to the occlusion rather than a reline. A broken denture base typically requires repairs or a new denture, not just a reline. Discomfort while chewing may necessitate adjustments to the denture or an investigation into the cause but does not inherently indicate that a reline is necessary unless it is associated with a poor fit due to resorption.