Dry mucosa in the elderly interferes with denture retention and increases the risk of which condition?

• A. Dental caries
• B. Periodontal disease
• C. Oral cancer
• D. Mucosal ulcers

Answer: (A)

Dry mucosa means there is less saliva in the mouth. Saliva is essential for protecting teeth: it buffers acids produced by bacteria, supplies minerals like calcium and phosphate for remineralization, and helps wash away food particles. When saliva flow is reduced, the oral environment becomes more acidic for longer after eating, and demineralization of enamel and dentin occurs more readily. This increases the risk of dental caries, especially in areas where teeth are already vulnerable or exposed, which is a common concern in elderly patients with reduced salivary flow.

In the context of denture wear, saliva also helps create the lubricating layer that aids denture suction and retention; dryness therefore compromises denture fit and can promote plaque accumulation around any remaining teeth. While mucosal ulcers, periodontal disease, or oral cancer can be influenced by multiple factors, the most direct and well-recognized consequence of dry mucosa in this scenario is the heightened risk of dental caries due to diminished buffering and clearance of sugars and acids.