Denture-related stomatitis erythematous (red) and edematous (swollen), sometimes with petechial hemorrhage (pin-points of bleeding). This usually occurs beneath an upper denture. Sometimes angular cheilitis can coexist, which is inflammation of the corners of the mouth, also often associated with "Candida albicans". Stomatitis rarely develops under a lower denture. The affected mucosa is often sharply defined, in the shape of the covering denture. The major risk factor for the development of this condition is wearing an upper complete denture, particularly when it is not removed during sleep and cleaned regularly. Older dentures are more likely to be involved. Other factors include xerostomia (dry
Aphthous stomatitis cause debilitating chronic pain and interfere with comfortable eating. In severe cases, this prevents adequate nutrient intake leading to malnutrition and weight loss. Aphthous ulcers typically begin as erythematous macules (reddened, flat area of mucosa) which develop into ulcers that are covered with a yellow-grey fibrinous membrane that can be scraped away. A reddish "halo" surrounds the ulcer. The size, number, location, healing time, and periodicity between episodes of ulcer formation are all dependent upon the subtype of aphthous stomatitis. The cause is not entirely clear, but is thought to be multifactorial. It has been suggested that aphthous stomatitis is