02/08/2025
Even without teeth, the mouth needs daily care.
Denture wearers should clean their prostheses like real teeth — or risk silent infections and harmful microbial shifts.
A recent meta-analysis has revealed that edentulous patients who wear dentures experience significant changes in their oral microbiome—especially when denture hygiene is inadequate.
The study reviewed microbial patterns in patients with and without teeth, showing a clear microbial imbalance in denture wearers.
Biofilm accumulation on poorly cleaned dentures leads to the overgrowth of pathogenic organisms, particularly Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans. These microbes are strongly associated with denture stomatitis, tissue inflammation, and potential systemic spread in vulnerable patients.
The findings emphasize that acrylic denture surfaces act as reservoirs for complex microbial communities. Without regular and proper hygiene, these surfaces promote a shift from balanced flora to opportunistic infections and oral dysbiosis.
Researchers strongly recommend routine professional cleaning, use of antimicrobial agents, and daily disinfection practices to maintain oral health in denture users—highlighting that oral care remains essential even after tooth loss.
🔗Full Meta-analysis study link in the comments
