Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test 2026 - Free ADC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Denture stomatitis is primarily caused by the overgrowth of normal commensal flora, particularly *Candida albicans*, which can thrive in the warm and moist environment created by dentures. This overgrowth often occurs when dentures are worn continuously without proper hygiene practices, leading to an imbalance of the oral microbiome. Factors that contribute to this condition include wearing dentures for prolonged periods, inadequate cleaning of the dentures, and not removing them overnight.

The role of the overgrowth of normal commensal flora is essential because it highlights how the body's own microorganisms can become pathogenic under certain conditions. This condition is also influenced by other factors, such as poor oral hygiene, but the primary mechanism involves the imbalance caused by excessive microbial growth rather than a single instance of trauma or an allergic response. Understanding this helps dental professionals to focus on preventive measures like educating patients on proper denture care and hygiene practices to avoid the development of denture stomatitis.