Abstract
In the past two decades, a number of methods and products have been developed in an attempt to reduce the microbial burden on denture surfaces. In addition, a number of denture lining materials have been commercialized as aids in alleviating denture discomfort, as through their viscoelastic properties, they act as shock absorbers and reduce and distribute the stress on denture-bearing tissues. However, some of these products are susceptible to deterioration due to denture hygiene/control methods, in which care they can act as reservoirs of infection.
In addition, the proportion of the elderly in the community, particularly those on medications, has been increasing with advances in medical diagnosis, treatment, and care systems, especially in developed countries. As distinguished above, a number of factors should be considered in the management of denture plaque that accumulates on prostheses. These considerations include 1) the ecology of microbial flora, particularly Candida, in plaque, 2) predisposing factors for infection (Table 1), 3) safety of hygiene products, 4) damage to materials caused by the hygiene method, and 5) the efficacy of plaque control methods.
Thus a large pool of patients in the community are in need of dentures that require hygienic maintenance once provided.
