There are several health conditions that can develop as a result of wearing dentures, which people who wear them should be aware of.
One of these medical issues is denture stomatitis, which is a condition caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus between your dentures and your gums. Also known as oral thrush, when it is connected to the patient’s use of dentures, it is called denture stomatitis or denture-related oral thrush.,
Luckily, this condition is easily treatable. At Affordable Denture & Implants, our experienced team specializes in ensuring the best fit for your dentures, preventing complications like denture stomatitis.
The Symptoms of Denture Stomatitis
Soreness in the Mouth & Throat
One of the most common symptoms of denture stomatitis is soreness in the mouth and throat, as well as pain or discomfort when swallowing. This is because of the inflammation caused by yeast overgrowth. In fact, ‘stomatitis’ literally means ‘inflammation of the mouth’. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort it may be a sign your dentures need to be replaced.
Red & White Patches Inside the Mouth
One of the most worrying things about denture stomatitis is that it can cause red and white patches inside the mouth, a symptom that can also be indicative of mouth cancer. This highlights how closely oral health affects overall health, making it crucial to address any issues promptly.
In cases of denture stomatitis or oral thrush, these patches typically subside with treatment. However, if it does not resolve with antifungal medication, patients with this symptom should schedule an urgent consultation with their dentist or doctor. At Affordable Dentures & Implants, we’re more than just dentures—we’re your partner in comprehensive oral care. To learn more about the full range of services we offer, explore our dental services.
Soreness/Cracked Skin around the Corners of the Mouth
Another symptom of denture stomatitis that could be mistaken for another condition is soreness or cracked skin around the corners of the mouth. While this can be caused by the inflammation that comes with denture stomatitis or oral thrush, it could also be the result of dry, chapped lips, or a cold sore caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Bad Breath or Bad Taste in the Mouth
Denture stomatitis can also cause bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. A lingering bad taste in the mouth can be difficult to mask, even with regular brushing or mouthwash. That bad taste could also be an early sign of other oral health issues, like gingivitis or periodontal disease. Denture stomatitis can also dull your sense of taste.
Treatment of Denture Stomatitis
If your dentist diagnoses you with denture stomatitis, they will recommend several steps to help manage and treat the condition. Many of our patients at Affordable Dentures & Implants have found relief from denture-related issues with our expert care. Don’t just take our word for it—read our patient reviews to see how we’ve helped others restore their comfort and confidence!
Proper Denture Cleaning
Firstly, your dentist will recommend giving your dentures a thorough clean to remove any Candida buildup, and emphasize the importance of daily cleaning. This involves not only brushing your dentures manually but also regularly soaking them in a dentist-approved cleaning solution. Understanding how to clean your dentures properly is crucial for preventing issues like denture stomatitis and ensuring long-term oral health.
Frequent Breaks from Denture Wear
Your dentist might also recommend taking more frequent breaks from wearing your dentures, especially if the inflammation is causing discomfort, to give your gums time to heal. If your dentures are causing discomfort due to poor fit or damage, it’s essential to address these issues promptly. Consider denture repairs to ensure your dentures are in optimal condition.
Antifungal Medication
You may also be prescribed antifungal medication to treat the infection, which could come in the form of tablets, lozenges or liquid, to be taken at home.
If your current dentures are causing ongoing issues and you need a replacement, you might want to explore options like our same-day denture services, which can provide a quick and effective solution to restore comfort and oral health.
Prevention
Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene
You can lower the risk of developing denture stomatitis by taking great care of your oral hygiene, including your dentures. Regularly cleaning your dentures with a dentist-approved sanitizer is the most effective way to prevent the spread of Candida on your dentures. Incorporating our simple health care tips into your daily routine can make a big difference in keeping your dentures in top condition and preventing issues like denture stomatitis.
Poorly Fitting Dentures
Ill-fitting dentures are another factor that can cause denture stomatitis. The continued pressure and rubbing of poorly fitting dentures can damage the skin of your gums, making it more susceptible to infection. If your dentures feel uncomfortable, shift in your mouth, or cause any pain, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a denture adjustment or denture relining & refitting. Prioritize your comfort and your oral health —ensure your dentures fit properly.
Stop Smoking
Quitting smoking will also lower the likelihood that you develop denture stomatitis, as smoking has been named as one of the biggest risk factors. This is true for smoking with all types of dentures. The exact reason for this is unknown, but it has been theorized that it is because of the chemicals in cigarette smoke. Smoking can lead to loss of bone density in the jaw, which can affect how well your dentures fit.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Additionally, deficiencies in certain vitamins, like B6, B12, iron and folic acid, can put you at greater risk of developing oral thrush. Maintaining a healthy diet with enough fruits and vegetables can help ensure you have a good level of these vitamins and minerals. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water will also support your oral health and help to reduce the growth of Candida. This is especially important for those with dental implants, as maintaining a healthy environment in your mouth helps ensure the long-term success of your implants.
Oral Thrush and Related Conditions
Denture stomatitis is a form of oral thrush that occurs in people who wear dentures. This condition often goes unnoticed in its early stages because it may not always cause immediate pain, but it can lead to significant discomfort and oral health issues if left untreated. If your dentures are causing discomfort, consider switching to SNAPSecure snap-in dentures for a more secure, comfortable fit and a full arch replacement.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush, or candidiasis, refers to a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida in a patient’s mouth. This condition can occur in anyone, regardless of whether or not they wear dentures. Most people naturally have a small amount of Candida in their mouth and throughout their body, but sometimes certain factors can lead to an overgrowth of the yeast, causing an infection. To catch it early and prevent complications, consider scheduling a free dentist consultation & x-ray to ensure your oral health is in top condition.
Some medications or medical conditions are also known to increase the likelihood of developing thrush:
Medications
Antibiotics: Antibiotics will kill off many of the microorganisms that naturally exist within our bodies, as this is what makes them so effective at curing a bacterial infection. However, this also means they can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in your mouth. When this balance is altered, it can create an environment where Candida yeast can grow unchecked, leading to the development of oral thrush and its associated symptoms. For those with multiple or single tooth implants, this could pose additional challenges.
Corticosteroids: These steroids, often administered by asthma inhaler, can make patients more likely to experience a case of oral thrush. This is because inhaling steroids weakens the immune response in your mouth and throat, making it easier for fungal infections like oral thrush to spread. If left unchecked, severe cases might even lead to complications that require more serious interventions, such as a tooth extraction.
Medical Conditions
People with diabetes: People with diabetes often have a higher level of glucose in their saliva due to higher blood sugar, and they might also produce less saliva. Both of these factors contribute to an environment in which Candida can spread more easily. Diabetes is closely related to Chronic Dry Mouth (Xerostomia), which further exacerbates the risk of oral infections.
People who are immunocompromised: Some people have weaker immune systems, due to health conditions or being prescribed immunosuppressant medication, for example in the case of organ transplant recipients. As a result, these individuals will have a greater risk of developing thrush.
Inflammatory Papillary Hyperplasia
If denture stomatitis or oral thrush is not treated, it can cause patients to develop a case of inflammatory papillary hyperplasia (IPH). In this condition small raised lesions grow on the hard palate or roof of the mouth, which can make wearing dentures very uncomfortable.
Sometimes IPH may improve when the patient takes a break from wearing their dentures. However, in more severe cases, the lesions may require surgical removal to alleviate discomfort and restore oral health. For patients concerned about the procedure, sedation dentistry can be an excellent option to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If denture stomatitis symptoms are affecting you, visit your local Affordable Dentures & Implants branch today. We’ll adjust or reline your dentures for a perfect fit, so you can regain your comfort and protect your oral health!