IMPORTANCE OF PROPER FITTING OF REMOVABLE DENTAL PROSTHESIS IN PREVENTING DENTURE STOMATITIS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This study analyzes prosthetic stomatitis, an inflammatory condition common in users of poorly fitting prostheses. The research emphasizes the importance of understanding how improper prosthetic adjustments contribute to the development of this condition, aiming to identify effective strategies for prevention and treatment. In addition to reviewing prevalence, this study investigates the causes, types, and risk factors associated with prosthetic stomatitis, including variants such as erythematous, atrophic, and hyperplastic forms. The literature review mapped the best clinical practices for reducing the impact of the disease, addressing effective methods of prevention and treatment. Procedures highlighted ranged from simple adjustments to the prescription of antifungal medications and, in severe cases, surgical interventions. This knowledge is valuable for dental practice, providing evidence-based guidelines that can enhance patient care. The goal is to fill a gap in the dental literature, offering information that can benefit both dental professionals and patients using removable dental prostheses. The research involved a thorough analysis of literature published in the last ten years, accessed through scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as university libraries and specialized dental journals. The selection of studies was made based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and methodological quality of the reviewed publications. The results indicate that accurate prosthetic adjustment is essential to prevent prosthetic stomatitis, as well as to reduce the risks associated with this condition. It concludes that clinical and educational practices aimed at proper prosthetic adaptation, along with patient monitoring and guidance, are fundamental to minimizing the impact of prosthetic stomatitis and improving the quality of life of users. From an academic perspective, the work contributed to the field of dentistry by consolidating up-to-date information that will serve as a reference for future research. New research opportunities were opened, such as the development of more biocompatible prosthetic materials, the use of innovative technologies for precise prosthetic adjustments, and the exploration of less invasive interventions for treating prosthetic stomatitis. Therefore, the study fully achieved its objectives by addressing the questions raised on the topic.