DENTURE STOMATITIS: PREVALENCE AND CORRELATION WITH AGE AND GENDER

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of denture stomatitis in denture users and to analyze associated factors. Material and Methods: The sample was collected from patients’ clinical records at the Department of Stomatology, Federal University of Paraiba, in the period 2008-2009. Were collected data on age, sex, type of dental prosthesis used and denture stomatitis diagnosis. Data obtained were processed into a statistical program, and it was employed a descriptive analysis and chi-square test, considering p less than 0.05. Results: Of 512 patients attended during the study period, 174 were dental prostheses users, from who 35% (61) had a diagnosis of denture stomatitis. This lesion was more frequent among women with 77% percentage, and 23% occurred in men. Patients’ ages ranged from 25 to 87 years, with 52.2 years average. The most affected age group was between 51 and 60 years. Regarding the type of prosthesis, 59% wore removable partial dentures and 42% total prosthesis. The denture stomatitis was significantly associated with age, gender and type of prosthesis used, for all variables (p=0.000). Conclusion: The results showed considerable prevalence of denture stomatitis among denture users and suggest that the occurrence of this pathology was influenced by age and female gender. DESCRIPTORS: Stomatitis. Dental Prosthesis. Candidiasis.