What Is Denture Stomatitis? Causes, Symptoms & Prevention.

Introduction

If your gums look red, irritated, or swollen under your dentures, you may have denture stomatitis — the most common oral infection in denture wearers. The good news? It’s both treatable and preventable with the right daily routine.

This guide explains what stomatitis is, the causes, symptoms, and the dentist-designed system to prevent it.

What Is Denture Stomatitis?

Denture stomatitis is an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria and yeast (often Candida albicans) collecting under a denture.

It affects:

  • Traditional denture wearers

  • Implant denture wearers

  • People who sleep with dentures

  • People who don’t clean their mouth properly

It can appear suddenly or build slowly over time.

Common Causes of Denture Stomatitis

1. Poor Cleaning Routine

Biofilm buildup under the denture → irritation + infection.

2. Sleeping With Dentures

Wearing dentures at night increases infection risk by 300%+.

3. Not Cleaning the Mouth

Your gums, cheeks, and tongue also collect bacteria.

4. Using Toothpaste on Dentures

Scratches acrylic → traps bacteria.

5. Dry Mouth

Low saliva = more irritation, faster bacterial growth.

6. Ill-Fitting Denture

Pressure spots trap bacteria.

Symptoms of Denture Stomatitis

Common signs include:

  • Redness

  • Swelling

  • Tenderness

  • Burning sensation

  • Irritation under the denture

  • Red spots or patches

  • Difficulty wearing denture

  • Bad breath

If thrush is present, you may see white patches.

How to Treat & Prevent Denture Stomatitis

1. Clean Your Mouth Twice Daily

Use Cleanadent Paste to brush:

  • Gums

  • Tongue

  • Cheeks

  • Palate

This removes yeast and bacteria on soft tissues.

2. Clean the Denture Properly

Use Cleanadent Paste (never toothpaste).

3. Soak Dentures Overnight

Use Liquid Crystal or Powder Crystal to:

  • Kill bacteria

  • Kill yeast

  • Remove biofilm

  • Reduce inflammation

This is essential to stopping stomatitis.

4. Never Sleep With Dentures

Gums need a break to recover.

5. Use a Moisturizing Adhesive

Adhesadent reduces friction and irritation during the day.

6. If Severe, Contact Your Dentist

You may need antifungal treatment if the infection is advanced.

Conclusion

Denture stomatitis is common but easily preventable. With the right cleaning system and nighttime routine, you can keep your mouth healthy, fresh, and irritation-free.

See Also: Dentures & Bad Breath

 

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