Factors Influencing the Occurrence of Oral Mucosal Lesions in Complete Denture Wearers in A Tertiary Care Dental Hospital

Abstract

Background
Denture needs proper maintenance for its longevity. Oral mucosal lesions are prevalent among denture wearers and significantly compromise oral health and quality of life. The objective of this study to determine the factors influencing the occurrence of oral mucosal lesions (OMLs) in complete denture wearers.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 184 complete denture wearing patients after insertion of 6 months to 35 years from October 2024 to March 2025. Questionnaire that collected information on gender, age, education status, number of dentures, length of denture usage, hygiene, night time use of denture, broken denture base/teeth if any and use of denture adhesives was completed and patients’ oral cavity was examined by the prosthodontist.
Results
Oral mucosal lesions were identified in 58 participants (31.5%). The most common lesion was traumatic ulcer, observed in 38 participants (20.7%), followed by flabby ridge in 19 participants (10.3%). No statistically significant association was found between the presence of oral mucosal lesions and variables such as age, sex, educational status, number of dentures, duration of denture use, denture hygiene practices, nighttime denture use, fractured denture base, or use of denture adhesives (p-value >0.05).
Conclusions
No significant differences were observed in the occurrence of oral mucosal lesions with respect to age, gender, educational level, hygiene status, or denture features. The most common lesions among complete denture wearers were traumatic ulcers, followed by flabby ridges, influenced by factors such as gender, number of dentures, and nighttime denture use.