Influence of dry mouth and denture use as predisposing factors for erythematous candidiasis

Abstract

Erythematous candidiasis (EC) is an atrophic variant of oral candidiasis, which results in oral pain and burning, and dysgeusia. The course of the disease is often chronic and recurrent. Thus, an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary. The species most frequently implicated in EC is Candida albicans; however, other species have been encountered. The diagnosis of EC in clinical practice is established with an exfoliative cytological examination. Hyposalivation is the most important predisposing etiological factor for EC. Since chronic EC does not resolve spontaneously, antifungal therapy and the management of dry mouth is required for its resolution. Gargling with a mouth rinse, and the application of a saliva substitute, artificial saliva and moisturizing gel can prevent an increase in the degree of Candida colonization, moisten the oral mucosa, and strengthen the anatomical barrier, and is considered to be an appropriate measure for the treatment of EC in patients with dry mouth. In cases of EC in which denture use is an etiological factor, the disinfection of dentures is essential. A topical application of an antifungal agent to the dentures has been shown to be effective in some cases.