Which organism is most commonly associated with denture stomatitis?

• A. Candida species
• B. Streptococcus mutans
• C. Actinomyces israelii
• D. Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Answer: (A)

Denture stomatitis is most commonly associated with a fungal organism, specifically Candida species, especially Candida albicans. This yeast commonly colonizes the moist environment under a denture and forms a biofilm on the denture surface and the underlying mucosa. The resulting inflammatory response in the mucosa leads to the characteristic erythematous, inflamed appearance under the denture, particularly in people who wear dentures for extended periods, have poor denture hygiene, or have risk factors like diabetes or immunosuppression. While bacteria can be present in denture biofilms, Candida overgrowth is the classic and most frequent culprit.

Streptococcus mutans is primarily linked to dental caries, not denture stomatitis. Actinomyces israelii is associated with actinomycosis, which presents differently. Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be an opportunistic pathogen in some settings, but it is not the organism most commonly linked to denture stomatitis.