Which of the following is the MOST COMMON risk factor for denture stomatitis?

• A. Continuous denture wear
• B. Xerostomia
• C. Diabetes or immunosuppression
• D. Nutritional deficiencies

Answer: (A)

Continuous denture wear is the main driver behind denture stomatitis. Keeping a denture in place around the clock creates a warm, moist environment under the prosthesis, which supports Candida albicans growth and biofilm formation on the denture surface. This constant coverage also reduces mechanical cleansing of the mucosa and can diminish local immune defenses in the tissue, making inflammation more likely. While xerostomia, diabetes or immunosuppression, and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to susceptibility, they are not as commonly the primary cause as the habit of wearing the denture continuously. Practically, reducing wear time, especially overnight, and improving hygiene effectively targets the most common source of the problem.