Denture stomatitis is a common condition that affects the skin under dentures.

It is usually linked to an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida, which is also known as thrush.

When thrush affects the mouth under a denture, it is called denture stomatitis.

---

Symptoms

Denture stomatitis causes:

• Redness.
• Soreness.
• Inflammation of the skin under a denture.

It most often affects the roof of the mouth, but can also occur under lower dentures.

The area may look red and shiny, but it is not always painful.

---

Is denture stomatitis infectious?

No. Denture stomatitis is not contagious.

You cannot:

• Catch it from someone else.
• Pass it on through contact.

Thrush can occur in other parts of the body, but it is not passed between people.

---

Who is more likely to get denture stomatitis?

Denture stomatitis is most common in people who wear dentures.

It is also more likely if you:

• Wear dentures overnight.
• Do not clean dentures regularly.
• Find it difficult to keep your mouth clean.
• Have diabetes.
• Use steroid tablets or steroid inhalers.
• Have a weakened immune system.

---

How is denture stomatitis treated?

Treatment focuses on improving hygiene and reducing irritation.

Steps that often help include:

• Keeping your mouth as clean as possible.
• Rinse your dentures after meals.
• Cleaning dentures thoroughly every day.
• Removing dentures at night to let the skin rest.
• Storing dentures in water or a denture-cleaning solution overnight.
• Brushing dentures with a soft brush and a denture cleaner.

If you can leave your dentures out for longer periods during the day, symptoms may improve more quickly.

---

Will I need medication?

Sometimes, improved cleaning and removing dentures at night is enough.

If symptoms do not improve, your dental team may prescribe antifungal medication.

This often comes as tablets or lozenges that dissolve slowly in the mouth.

Treatment may need to continue for several weeks to fully clear the infection.

---

Can denture stomatitis come back?

Yes, it can return if the cause is not addressed.

To reduce the risk:

• Clean dentures every day.
• Remove dentures at night.
• Keep your mouth clean.
• Attend regular dental check-ups.

---

When should I seek advice?

Speak to your dental team if:

• The skin under your denture is sore or red.
• Symptoms do not improve with good cleaning.
• Your denture feels uncomfortable or loose.

Early advice can prevent symptoms from getting worse.

---

Need support?

If you wear dentures and have ongoing soreness or irritation, your dental team can help.
They can check your dentures, your mouth, and recommend the right treatment.