What is denture-induced stomatitis?
You will normally see denture induced stomatitis in people who are wearing dentures but it can also be found in other people. It is also common in older people. Other names for denture-induced stomatitis include denture sore mouth and chronic atrophic candidiasis. Denture-induced stomatitis can be connected to one or more of the following
- dentures that do not fit well especially if they are worn when you sleep
- poor denture hygiene
- a build up in the yeast candida albicans which leads to infection
Denture-induced stomatitis can manifest itself in several ways. Some people will have no symptoms while in other cases, the area under the upper denture will become inflamed or swollen. In some people, things are more widespread and may involve more serious paiful inflammations. Some people will have red, pebble-like sores on the roof of their mouth known as papillary hyperplasia.
Denture-induced stomatitis occurs more frequently with upper dentures than the lower ones. This is because the top denture covers more area than the lower denture. It is also because the upper denture is held in place with more suction than the lower denture. The way the denture is fit also makes a difference. Yeast can build up underneath if they do not fit right.
People who have type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing this kind of condition. Other candidates for this condition are people with weakened immune systems. The candida infection is probable for these people.
What are the symptoms of denture-induced stomatitis?
People with denture induced stomatitis do not have any symptoms most of the time. The tissues under the denture may simply appear redder than normal. There may be some small red sores on the roof of the mouth as well. If the dentures do not fit properly of if it hurts to them out then this may be a symptom as well. If there are white patches in your mouth then this could be a sign of candidiasis or thrush.
What is the diagnosis for denture-induced stomatitis?
On every regular visit, your dentist will examine your dentures so that they are clean and so that they fit properly. Your mouth will also be examined. Your dentist will ask you questions regarding
- any pain that you feel in your mouth
- the comfort of wearing your dentures
- how often you clean your dentures
- how often you wear your dentures
Your dentist might think that you have denture-induced stomatitis if the area beneath your dentures looks swollen. If it is sore then there might be denture-induced stomatitis. If you have bumps on the roof of your mouth then that could also be a sign for denture-induced stomatitis. Your dentist may have to check your mouth for candida yeast infection. This will involve wiping the affected area with a cotton swab which will be sent to the laboratory for testing.
How long will denture-induced stomatitis last?
Denture-induced stomatitis can last for several years if it is not treated. You must have regular visits to your dentist so that the condition can be diagnosed and treated right away.
How can you prevent denture-induced stomatitis?
The dentures in your mouth will need daily care even if you do not have any natural teeth anymore. The plaque and the tartar that build up on your dentures will irritate your mouth and your gums. You must remove your dentures every night to relieve the pressure in your mouth and to allow the saliva to clean up your mouth. In order to prevent denture-induced stomatitis and other denture induced irritations, you must
- visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist may ask you to return to the office more frequently depending on the condition of your mouth and your overall health. People who use tobacco or alcohol should visit their dentist more often
- make sure that your dentures fit properly. The fit of your dentures will change over time as your mouth changes shape as well. You should visit your dentist if your dentures do not fit properly
- visit your dentist if your dentures become damaged. You should not try to fix your dentures yourself
- rinse your dentures after eating meals
- clean your dentures every night with a cream or paste and then soak them in water
- soak your dentures in an effervescent solution every week
- brush and floss your remaining teeth but if you have no more natural teeth, simply rinse your mouth with water regularly
How is denture-induced stomatitis treated?
If your dentures do not fit properly then you must ask your dentist to repair them or replace them. Your dentist will show you how to clean your dentures and how to keep your mouth clean. Your dentist will even show you how to massage the inside of your mouth in order to keep it healthy. If there are infections inside your mouth then you may need medicine to treat it. Your dentist may suggest that you rinse your dentures in an antimicrobial or antifungal solution. You will be given a prescription for this. When the denture-induced stomatitis is being treated, you must use your dentures as little as possible.
When should you call a professional?
If your dentures crack, break, or splinter, you should call your dentist right away. You should not wear them until they are fixed. If your dentures do not fit properly or if they hurt when you take them out then you should contact your dentist immediately. Finally, you must call your dentist if the area under your dentures is sore or swollen.
What is the prognosis on denture-induced stomatitis?
With the proper treatment, the outlook is great.