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What is Denture Stomatitis?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vutala Prathyusha , Dentist
Denture Stomatitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the tissues beneath a denture, especially in the upper jaw. It can cause redness, discomfort, and swelling, often without noticeable pain.
Denture Stomatitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the mucous membrane beneath a denture, most commonly the upper denture. It is often caused by poor denture hygiene, continuous denture wear (especially overnight), or a fungal infection, such as Candida albicans.
The condition may present as redness, swelling, or irritation, and though it is often painless, it can lead to discomfort and complications if untreated. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and denture care is crucial for preventing and managing dental issues.
What are the Denture Stomatitis Symptoms and Warning Signs?
Denture stomatitis often develops gradually and may not cause noticeable discomfort initially. However, recognising the symptoms early can help prevent the condition from worsening. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Redness and inflammation of the tissue under the denture
- Mild soreness or discomfort in the mouth
- Swelling of the affected area
- Burning sensation or sensitivity, especially while eating
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- White patches (in cases linked to fungal infections)
- Increased buildup of plaque on the denture
In many cases, patients may not feel pain, making regular dental checkups essential for early detection.
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Denture Stomatitis?
Denture stomatitis can result from several underlying causes and contributing risk factors, especially those related to poor oral hygiene and prolonged denture use. Common causes and risk factors include:
Causes of Denture Stomatitis
- Fungal infection: Most commonly caused by Candida albicans, leading to oral thrush.
- Poor denture hygiene: Accumulation of bacteria and fungi on unclean dentures.
- Continuous denture wear: Wearing dentures overnight or for long hours without removal.
- Ill-fitting dentures: Friction and pressure from poorly fitting dentures irritate the oral tissues.
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva flow promotes microbial growth and infection.
Risk Factors for Denture Stomatitis
- Advanced age: Older adults are more likely to wear dentures and have weaker immune defences.
- Smoking: Increases oral tissue irritation and alters the mouth's environment.
- Diabetes: Alters immune response and promotes fungal growth.
- Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive medications raise susceptibility.
- Poor nutrition: Deficiencies in iron, folate, or B-complex vitamins can impair mucosal health.
- Lack of regular dental checkups: Prevents early detection and correction of denture-related issues.
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Get Second OpinionHow is Denture Stomatitis Diagnosed?
Denture stomatitis is usually identified during a routine dental examination. While the condition may not cause pain, dentists look for visible signs, such as redness and swelling, under the denture. Early detection is key to preventing further oral complications.
Common Diagnostic Procedures Include:
- Clinical Examination: The dentist inspects the area beneath the denture for inflammation, redness, and lesions.
- Denture Assessment: Evaluation of the denture's fit and cleanliness is essential, as poorly fitting or unclean dentures are often a contributing factor.
- Microbiological Tests: A swab from the affected area may be taken to identify fungal infections, especially Candida albicans.
- Salivary Flow Tests: Reduced saliva flow (dry mouth) can increase the risk of infection, so assessing salivary output may be necessary.
- Blood Tests (if needed): In cases of persistent or recurrent stomatitis, blood tests may be used to check for diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.
These steps help your dentist determine the exact cause and provide a tailored treatment plan for effective relief.
What are the Treatment Options for Denture Stomatitis?
Treating denture stomatitis focuses on relieving inflammation, controlling infection, and correcting any underlying issues with the denture.
Prompt treatment not only improves oral comfort but also prevents the condition from worsening or recurring.
Available Treatment Options Include:
- Antifungal Medications: If a fungal infection like Candida is detected, your dentist may prescribe antifungal creams, gels, or lozenges (e.g., nystatin or miconazole). Treatment usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks.
- Improved Denture Hygiene: Cleaning dentures daily with a soft brush and soaking them in disinfectant solutions can significantly reduce symptoms. Dentures should be removed at night to allow the tissue to recover.
- Denture Adjustment or Replacement: Ill-fitting dentures may require relining or replacement to alleviate pressure and friction on the oral tissues.
- Topical Anti-inflammatory Agents: In cases with significant irritation, your dentist may recommend corticosteroid creams to ease inflammation.
- Treating Underlying Conditions: If systemic conditions, such as diabetes or nutritional deficiencies, are contributing to the issue, managing these issues is crucial for long-term improvement.
- Follow-up Care and Prevention: Regular dental checkups help ensure the problem doesn't return. Your dentist will monitor healing and reinforce proper denture care habits.
When to See a Doctor for Denture Stomatitis?
If you wear dentures and notice redness, swelling, or irritation under them that doesn't go away in a few days, it's time to see a dentist. While mild symptoms are common, they should not persist for more than 7 to 10 days without improvement.
You should seek medical help if you experience:
- Persistent soreness or burning under your dentures
- Red or inflamed gum tissue that does not heal
- White patches or signs of a fungal infection
- Bad breath or a sour taste in the mouth
- Difficulty wearing your denture due to discomfort
High-Risk Groups Who Should See a Dentist Promptly
- Older adults who wear full or partial dentures
- People with diabetes have weakened immunity or dry mouth
- Smokers are more prone to oral infections
- Anyone with repeated or worsening symptoms
Getting early treatment helps prevent more serious oral problems and ensures your dentures remain comfortable and practical. Please don't ignore the signs; your oral health depends on it.
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What is the Recovery Process After Denture Stomatitis Treatment?
Most people recover from denture stomatitis within 1 to 2 weeks with proper care. After treatment begins, symptoms such as redness and irritation start to subside.
Follow-up care includes:
- A dental visit in 1-2 weeks to check healing
- Ongoing checkups every 6 months
Lifestyle and hygiene tips:
- Always remove your dentures at night
- Clean your dentures daily with a brush and soak them in a cleaning solution
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water or as advised by your dentist
- Avoid smoking and sugary foods
- Drink water often to avoid dry mouth
With good denture care, most people do not have repeated issues. If you follow your dentist's advice, you can enjoy a healthy, pain-free mouth.
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Denture Stomatitis?
Taking care of your dentures and oral health daily can help prevent denture stomatitis.
Prevention Tips
- Remove dentures before sleeping
- Clean dentures and your mouth daily
- Soak dentures in a cleaning solution overnight
- Visit your dentist for regular denture checks
- Quit smoking and eat a balanced diet
- Manage diabetes or dry mouth with your doctor's help
Complications If Untreated
- Chronic mouth infections
- Pain or sores under the denture
- Poor denture fit due to gum changes
- Fungal spread to other parts of the mouth or throat
By staying consistent with dental care and regular screenings, you can lower your risk of infection and avoid these complications.
Our Experience Treating Denture Stomatitis
At Medicover Hospitals, we understand how denture-related issues can affect your daily comfort and confidence. Our dental team offers compassionate care, using the latest tools to treat and prevent denture stomatitis.
We focus on long-term relief through proper diagnosis, hygiene support, and individual follow-ups. Your comfort and oral health are our top priority every step of the way.
