What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Candida-Associated Denture-Induced Stomatitis
• Denture-Associated Erythematous Stomatitis
• Denture Sore Mouth

What is Denture Stomatitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Denture Stomatitis is described as a common infectious condition affecting the mouth of individuals who use dentures. It usually affects the hard and soft palate of the mouth (the roof), but may spread to involve the cheeks and mouth corners
• Denture Stomatitis can be caused by oral microorganisms that constitute the oral cavity biota (microorganisms that normally inhabit the mouth). A vast majority of the cases involve the yeast-like fungus, called Candida albicans, which is normally present in the mouth
• The infection cause redness on the roof of the mouth and may be accompanied by pain, irritation, and a burning sensation. Denture Stomatitis is frequently the result of continuous usage of dentures and/or inadequate denture hygiene and care
• A diagnosis of the condition is made through an oral examination and via cultures of oral scrapings, if required. Denture Stomatitis is typically treated using antifungal medications (for Candida albicans) along-with the treating any underlying health condition
• The prognosis is excellent with adequate treatment in most individuals. Denture Stomatitis may be prevented through good oral hygiene and denture care

Who gets Denture Stomatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual (adult or child) who wear dentures or other prosthetic devices may be affected. However, Denture Stomatitis is most commonly observed in elderly adults
• Some reports indicate that as many as 70% of older adults who wear dentures are known to be infected
• Both males and females are equally affected and no predilection for any gender is observed
• Racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is not observed

What are the Risk Factors for Denture Stomatitis? (Predisposing Factors) 

The risk factors for Denture Stomatitis include:

• Individuals who wear upper (full) dentures have the highest risk than others who wear partial upper, or partial or full lower set of dentures
• Wearing (upper) dentures continuously for long periods, especially while sleeping in the night
• Lack of proper and regular cleaning and care of dentures
• Use of ill-fitting dentures that irritate or injure the oral mucosal lining
• Any individual with suppressed immune system caused by diseases/conditions, such as poorly-controlled diabetes, cancer therapy, and HIV infection (or AIDS), may have a higher risk
• Individuals who take steroids and certain antibiotics (usually long duration therapy)
• Conditions such as dry mouth (decreased saliva in mouth)
• Iron-deficiency disorders
• Individuals with allergy to materials used in the dentures

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Denture Stomatitis? (Etiology)

• Denture Stomatitis is frequently caused by the microorganism Candida albicans, a yeast-like fungus, in individuals who use dentures
• Microorganisms that are present within the mouth grow and multiply on the surface of the denture (usually upper denture), on the roof of the mouth. This leads to redness and inflammation of the hard and soft palate known as Denture Stomatitis
• In many cases, only the roof of the mouth is involved; though, the infection may painfully spread to the corners of the mouth too
• Older adults with decreased immune system are particularly vulnerable to the condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Denture Stomatitis?

The signs and symptoms of Denture Stomatitis may include:

• Red inflamed areas in the palate (roof of the mouth)
• Pain and burning sensation in the mouth
• Difficulty wearing dentures
• Presence of ulcers on mouth corners
• Difficulty in eating and drinking

How is Denture Stomatitis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Denture Stomatitis includes:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history, including evaluating cause of weakened immune system (if any)
• Assessment of the signs and symptoms
• Oral examination
• Blood tests to identify other medical conditions causing similar symptoms
• Culture swabs

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Denture Stomatitis?

The following complications are likely to arise from Denture Stomatitis:

• Eating and swallowing difficulties
• Individuals with poor immune system may have severe infection

How is Denture Stomatitis Treated?

The treatment for Denture Stomatitis may include:

• A suspension of mild antifungal medication can be swished in the mouth and swallowed
• Use of antifungal lozenges and topical applications
• Treat any underlying health condition causing immunosuppression in the individual
• Proper denture hygiene: Washing and cleaning dentures as recommended, including disinfecting the same

How can Denture Stomatitis be Prevented?

The following preventive measures can be adopted for minimizing the risk of Denture Stomatitis:

• Good oral hygiene and care:
  • Regularly brush mouth after eating and drinking using fluoride-containing paste
  • Use a suitable mouth rinse (containing fluoride), as recommended by the dentist
  • Floss the teeth daily
  • Undertake early treatment for any dental conditions including dry mouth and bad breath
• Good denture care and maintenance:
  • Use dentures sparingly (only when required) and avoid wearing them continuously
  • DO NOT wear dentures while sleeping or during the entire night
  • Clean and disinfect dentures following prescribed norms; clean dentures twice daily
  • Use soft-bristled brush to clean dentures, so as to not damage them
  • Soak dentures overnight in plain water, or in any recommended solution
• Drink more water
• Modify food and lifestyle habits to take care of health issues such as diabetes and obesity
• Visit a dental professional regularly to treat or ascertain any dental health issues in advance

What is Prognosis of Denture Stomatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for Denture Stomatitis is generally excellent with adequate treatment. However, the condition may recur, if favorable factors for microorganism growth are present again.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Denture Stomatitis:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/