How to Recognize and Prevent Infections Caused by Dentures

michaelgrishindent
May 13
4 min read

Oral infections related to dentures are not just uncomfortable — they can become serious if not treated early. At Grishin Denture Specialist, located in Spokane, WA, we've seen firsthand how critical proper care and early detection are in avoiding complications like stomatitis and oral thrush. This article explores the most common denture-related infections, their symptoms, and evidence-based strategies for prevention.

The Link Between Dentures and Oral Infections

Wearing dentures, whether full or partial, alters the natural environment of the mouth. Dentures cover the gums and create a warm, moist space ideal for bacterial and fungal growth if not cleaned thoroughly. Over time, poor hygiene or ill-fitting prosthetics can compromise the delicate balance of oral flora, leading to infection.

Denture Stomatitis: The Silent Inflammation

Denture stomatitis is the most prevalent infection among denture wearers. Also known as denture-induced stomatitis, it’s a chronic inflammatory reaction of the oral mucosa beneath the denture base, particularly the upper plate.

Common Causes:

Poor cleaning habits

Sleeping with dentures

Ill-fitting or loose dentures

High-sugar diets that feed fungal colonies

Smoking or dry mouth conditions

Warning Signs:

Redness and swelling under the denture (usually painless)

Persistent bad breath

Increased plaque accumulation

A slimy biofilm coating the denture

Mild burning sensation on the palate

According to the Journal of Prosthodontics, nearly 70% of upper denture wearers show signs of stomatitis to some degree, often without realizing it.

Oral Thrush: Candida Overgrowth in Denture Wearers

Oral thrush, or oral candidiasis, is another common infection seen in denture patients, particularly among the elderly and immunocompromised.

Symptoms of Denture-Related Thrush:

White, curd-like patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth

Red, raw tissue beneath dentures

Soreness or a burning feeling

Difficulty swallowing or altered taste

Candida albicans, a yeast that naturally lives in the mouth, becomes pathogenic when the oral microbiome is disrupted. Dentures, especially when worn overnight, create the ideal microenvironment for this fungal overgrowth.

High-Risk Populations:

Diabetics

Patients on antibiotics or corticosteroids

Chemotherapy recipients

Those with dry mouth (xerostomia)

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases confirms that Candida is found on up to 85% of upper dentures when hygiene is lacking.

Angular Cheilitis: Cracks and Infection at the Corners of the Mouth

Often overlooked, angular cheilitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the corners of the mouth, frequently linked to ill-fitting dentures that promote saliva pooling.

Key Indicators:

Red, cracked skin at the mouth’s corners

Painful sores that crust or bleed

Fungal or bacterial coinfections (Staphylococcus aureus + Candida)

Angular cheilitis is not only uncomfortable but may be a sign of deeper issues like malnutrition, vitamin B deficiencies, or poorly fabricated dentures.

Denture Infection Signs You Should Never Ignore

Early detection is critical. Any of the following symptoms warrant immediate attention:

Persistent redness or white patches under the denture

Bleeding, cracking, or sores along the gumline

Foul odor from the denture despite cleaning

Pain or discomfort when chewing or speaking

New denture looseness or wobbling (sign of tissue change)

Prompt professional intervention can prevent escalation into more serious systemic infections or permanent tissue damage.

Stomatitis Prevention Strategies Backed by Research

1. Daily Cleaning with Antimicrobial Agents

Clean dentures at least once per day with a non-abrasive cleanser. A 2021 study in Gerodontology found that 0.12% chlorhexidine solutions and alkaline peroxide-based tablets were most effective at reducing biofilm and fungal colonies.

2. Soaking Dentures Overnight

Never sleep with dentures in unless directed by a specialist. Soak them in an ADA-approved denture cleanser overnight. This allows oral tissues to recover and prevents microbial buildup.

3. Brushing Oral Tissues

Clean not only your dentures but also your gums, tongue, and cheeks with a soft-bristled brush or gauze daily. This helps remove plaque and stimulates blood flow to the mucosa.

4. Regular Adjustments and Relines

Ill-fitting dentures can create pressure sores and trap debris. We recommend annual evaluations at Grishin Denture Specialist to assess fit and identify infection risk early.

5. Control Systemic Risk Factors

Manage underlying health issues like diabetes and dry mouth. If taking antibiotics, use probiotics and consider antifungal rinses as advised by your dentist.

Antifungal and Antibiotic Treatment Options

If an infection is detected, treatments may include:

Nystatin (oral suspension or tablets) for thrush

Clotrimazole or Miconazole for fungal infections

Topical corticosteroids for inflammation

Systemic antibiotics in bacterial coinfections or angular cheilitis

Dentures should also be disinfected with sodium hypochlorite (bleach) diluted 1:10, except in cases of metal components. Consult your provider before any disinfectant use.

Proper Storage and Handling: An Overlooked Infection Factor

Rinse dentures after every meal

Always store in clean water or solution—never dry out

Replace storage containers every few months to prevent cross-contamination

Avoid using boiling water or harsh chemicals that degrade the denture base

The American College of Prosthodontists also recommends replacing dentures every 5–8 years, as aged acrylic can harbor more biofilm.

Conclusion

Denture-related infections are both common and preventable. From stomatitis and oral thrush to angular cheilitis, early warning signs should never be ignored. By following proven hygiene protocols, having regular professional evaluations, and managing systemic risk factors, patients can significantly reduce their infection risk.

Whether you're new to dentures or you've been wearing them for years, a proper fit is essential for comfort, chewing, and even gum enjoyment. At Grishin Denture Specialist, we serve patients in Spokane and surrounding areas, including Spokane Valley, Cheney, Deer Park, and Liberty Lake—offering expert care and affordable dentures in Spokane that support both function and long-term oral health.

If your dentures are causing irritation, feel loose, or shift while chewing, Denturist Michael Grishin—a trusted denturist near me—can assess your fit and recommend a reline, adjustment, or a brand-new set of dentures in Spokane. For those searching for a dependable Spokane denture clinic or a denture clinic near me, we’re here to help protect your smile—and your health.

Learn what to expect when transitioning from partial to full dentures in our latest blog: A Seamless Shift: Your Guide to Moving from Partial to Full Dentures.

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Stay tuned for tips, insights, and the latest from our clinic!

The Link Between Dentures and Oral Infections

Denture Stomatitis: The Silent Inflammation

Denture stomatitis is the most prevalent infection among denture wearers. Also known as denture-induced stomatitis, it’s a chronic inflammatory reaction of the oral mucosa beneath the denture base, particularly the upper plate.

Common Causes:

Poor cleaning habits

Sleeping with dentures

Ill-fitting or loose dentures

High-sugar diets that feed fungal colonies

Smoking or dry mouth conditions

Warning Signs:

Redness and swelling under the denture (usually painless)

Persistent bad breath

Increased plaque accumulation

A slimy biofilm coating the denture

Mild burning sensation on the palate

According to the Journal of Prosthodontics, nearly 70% of upper denture wearers show signs of stomatitis to some degree, often without realizing it.

Oral Thrush: Candida Overgrowth in Denture Wearers

Oral thrush, or oral candidiasis, is another common infection seen in denture patients, particularly among the elderly and immunocompromised.

Symptoms of Denture-Related Thrush:

White, curd-like patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth

Red, raw tissue beneath dentures

Soreness or a burning feeling

Difficulty swallowing or altered taste

Candida albicans, a yeast that naturally lives in the mouth, becomes pathogenic when the oral microbiome is disrupted. Dentures, especially when worn overnight, create the ideal microenvironment for this fungal overgrowth.

High-Risk Populations:

Diabetics

Patients on antibiotics or corticosteroids

Chemotherapy recipients

Those with dry mouth (xerostomia)

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases confirms that Candida is found on up to 85% of upper dentures when hygiene is lacking.

Angular Cheilitis: Cracks and Infection at the Corners of the Mouth

Often overlooked, angular cheilitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the corners of the mouth, frequently linked to ill-fitting dentures that promote saliva pooling.

Key Indicators:

Red, cracked skin at the mouth’s corners

Painful sores that crust or bleed

Fungal or bacterial coinfections (Staphylococcus aureus + Candida)

Angular cheilitis is not only uncomfortable but may be a sign of deeper issues like malnutrition, vitamin B deficiencies, or poorly fabricated dentures.

Denture Infection Signs You Should Never Ignore

Early detection is critical. Any of the following symptoms warrant immediate attention:

Persistent redness or white patches under the denture

Bleeding, cracking, or sores along the gumline

Foul odor from the denture despite cleaning

Pain or discomfort when chewing or speaking

New denture looseness or wobbling (sign of tissue change)

Prompt professional intervention can prevent escalation into more serious systemic infections or permanent tissue damage.

Stomatitis Prevention Strategies Backed by Research

1. Daily Cleaning with Antimicrobial Agents

Clean dentures at least once per day with a non-abrasive cleanser. A 2021 study in Gerodontology found that 0.12% chlorhexidine solutions and alkaline peroxide-based tablets were most effective at reducing biofilm and fungal colonies.

2. Soaking Dentures Overnight

Never sleep with dentures in unless directed by a specialist. Soak them in an ADA-approved denture cleanser overnight. This allows oral tissues to recover and prevents microbial buildup.

3. Brushing Oral Tissues

Clean not only your dentures but also your gums, tongue, and cheeks with a soft-bristled brush or gauze daily. This helps remove plaque and stimulates blood flow to the mucosa.

4. Regular Adjustments and Relines

Ill-fitting dentures can create pressure sores and trap debris. We recommend annual evaluations at Grishin Denture Specialist to assess fit and identify infection risk early.

5. Control Systemic Risk Factors

Manage underlying health issues like diabetes and dry mouth. If taking antibiotics, use probiotics and consider antifungal rinses as advised by your dentist.

Antifungal and Antibiotic Treatment Options

If an infection is detected, treatments may include:

Nystatin (oral suspension or tablets) for thrush

Clotrimazole or Miconazole for fungal infections

Topical corticosteroids for inflammation

Systemic antibiotics in bacterial coinfections or angular cheilitis

Dentures should also be disinfected with sodium hypochlorite (bleach) diluted 1:10, except in cases of metal components. Consult your provider before any disinfectant use.

Proper Storage and Handling: An Overlooked Infection Factor

Rinse dentures after every meal

Always store in clean water or solution—never dry out

Replace storage containers every few months to prevent cross-contamination

Avoid using boiling water or harsh chemicals that degrade the denture base

The American College of Prosthodontists also recommends replacing dentures every 5–8 years, as aged acrylic can harbor more biofilm.

Conclusion