Factors in relation to the denture mucosal lesion among denture and orthodontic plate wearer: a preliminary investigation

Introduction: The primary aim of this study was to observe record and treat oral mucosal lesions associated with prolonged use of removable partial dentures/complete dentures and orthodontic plates. The following objectives were kept in mind to determine the type and the prevalence of denture stomatitis, angular chelitis, flabby ridge, irritational fibroma and oral cancer in the removable complete and partial denture patients and orthodontic plates. Materials and Method: A total of 502 patients using complete dentures/removable partial dentures for more than one year were selected out of those who attended the OPD of Dental College. After detailed history, the patients were subjected to thorough clinical examination. The denture bearing areas and adjacent mucosal surfaces were carefully scrutinized to observe any changes. Results: In this study a total of 157 patients out of 503 presented with some or the other denture related mucosal changes i.e. 32.4%. Denture related mucosal changes are more frequently associated with partial denture wearers than complete denture wearers. The association between type of denture and denture related lesion was statistically significant. Twenty nine patients presented with more than one lesion. Most common oral mucosal lesion observed was denture stomatitis. Conclusion: The most factor for denture related oral mucosa lesions were using the denture at night, age of prosthesis, and educational level. Dentists can help to prevent DML through making high quality denture and train the patients about methods and materials for denture cleaning and maintaining the prosthesis.