Which finding is commonly associated with denture stomatitis on examination?

• A. Erythema of palate with cobblestoning
• B. White patch on mucosa that cannot be rubbed off
• C. Vesicles that rupture quickly
• D. Punched-out ulcers

Answer: (A)

Denture stomatitis is chronic inflammation of the mucosa under a denture, often related to Candida and plaque buildup. On exam, the hallmark is redness of the palatal mucosa covered by the denture—usually a diffuse erythema—with the possibility of a cobblestone or papillary-textured surface from inflammatory changes. This red, inflamed appearance under the denture is what you’d expect to see, distinguishing it from white patches that can’t be rubbed off, vesicles, or ulcers, which point to other conditions. The cobblestoning reflects the mucosa’s papillary response to irritation and infection beneath the denture.