The major risk factor for the development of this condition is wearing an upper complete<unk> , particularly when it is not removed during sleep and cleaned regularly. Older<unk> s are more likely to be involved. Other factors include xerostomia (dry mouth), diabetes or a high carbohydrate diet. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can rarely be an underlying factor. Wearing dental appliances such as<unk> s alters the oral microbiota. A microbial plaque composed of bacteria and/or yeasts forms on the fitting surface of the<unk>  (the surface which rests against the palate) and on the mucosa which is covered. Over time, this plaque may be colonized by Candida species. The local environment under a<unk>  is more acidic and less exposed to the cleansing action of saliva, which favors high Candida enzymatic activity and may cause inflammation in the mucosa. C. albicans is the most commonly isolated organism, but occasionally bacteria are implicated. There is controversy as to whether this condition represents a true infection by C. albicans or just a reaction to the various micro-organisms present underneath a<unk> . It has been reported that often the surface of the<unk>  shows positive culture for Candida but biopsies of the mucosa rarely show hyphae invading epithelium. Similarly, microbiologic swabs of the involved mucosa show a much less heavy colonization than the surface of the<unk> . This has led some to conclude that the defining feature of a true infection is absent in<unk> . Poorly fitting<unk> s may cause pressure on the mucosa and mechanical irritation may create a similar clinical appearance, but this is uncommon. An orthodontic appliance may uncommonly produce a similar result. However, mucosal trauma is thought increase the ability of C. albicans to invade the tissues. Aside from infection and mechanical trauma, inflammatory reactions of the mucosa beneath a<unk>  can also result from irritation or allergy (allergic contact<unk>  caused by the materials in the<unk>  itself (acrylic, cobalt, chromium), or in response to substances within<unk>  adhesives. Incomplete curing of the acrylic resin (the prosthetic material) may also be an involved factor.
Denture-related stomatitis
Contact stomatitis
Streptococcal intertrigo
Phototoxic tar dermatitis
Aphthous stomatitis
Herpetic gingivostomatitis
Oral allergy syndrome
Neutrophilic eccrine hidradenitis