Factors Associated with the Detection of Candida albicans and Candida glabrata from Denture in Community-dwelling Elderly Individuals

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of Candida infections in elderly denture users and their association with oral functional decline and denture management. Forty-three elderly individuals aged 65 years or older from Chikusei City, Japan, participated. The oral environment and function were evaluated using oral hygiene status with tong coating index, oral dryness, number of remaining teeth, oral diadochokinetic, tongue pressure, masticatory function, masticatory function, repetitive saliva swallowing test. Participants were also asked about their denture management, denture base fitness and denture cleaning items. Participants were grouped as Candida-negative, C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. albicans, C. glabrata double positive groups. A high concordance of Candida species between dentures and the tongue was observed（Kappa coefficient = 0.652）. The C. glabrata group showed a higher rate of ill-fitting dentures（62.5%）, reduced masticatory function, and poor denture cleanliness. Candida infections were associated with impaired masticatory function and inadequate cleaning. Candida detection positively correlated with oral hypofunction（rs = 0.411）and detection on the tongue（rs = 0.750）. Poor denture management, including insufficient chemical and mechanical cleaning, significantly increased infection risk. These findings emphasize the importance of proper denture care and professional intervention in preventing Candida infections and maintaining oral health.