Denture Stomatitis: Conventional and Newer Treatment Modalities

Denture stomatitis (DS) is a condition characterized by inflammation and erythema of the mucosa underlying the denture-bearing surfaces. The aetiology of Denture stomatitis is multifactorial, but the main causative pathogenic microorganism being the fungus, Candida albicans. Predisposing factors include poor oral and denture hygiene, ill-fitting dentures, nocturnal denture wearing, allergic reactions to denture base material and underlying systemic conditions. The signs and symptoms include burning sensation of oral mucosa, bleeding from mucosal tissues, impaired taste sensation and halitosis. Conventional treatment modalities include the use of antifungal agents, either local or systemic, and elimination of predisposing factorslike denture trauma, poor denture and oral hygiene, and discontinuing the wear of dentures until the condition subsides. Recently, natural products have gained popularity in their use as antifungal agents because of their fewer side effects, accessibility, biocompatibility and their ability to overcome the resistance to antifungal drugs, among other properties. This review will discuss the conventional and alternate treatment modalities for Denture stomatitis. Keywords: Antifungal agents, Candida albicans; Denture stomatitis;