Which condition presents as papillary projections on the palate and is commonly associated with denture wear?

Which condition presents as papillary projections on the palate and is commonly associated with denture wear?

• A. Inflammatory papillary hyperplasia (IPH)
• B. Periodontal abscess
• C. Oral candidiasis
• D. Lichen planus

Answer: (A)

Chronic irritation from wearing a denture can cause the mucosa of the hard palate to respond with excess tissue growth, producing multiple red, cobblestone-like papillary projections. This inflammatory papillary hyperplasia is classically seen under a maxillary denture and is often linked to ill-fitting or worn dentures, with Candida infection sometimes contributing to redness and swelling. The other conditions don’t fit this presentation: a periodontal abscess is a localized pus-filled pocket around a tooth; oral candidiasis typically shows white plaques or red, atrophic mucosa rather than papillary projections; and lichen planus presents with lace-like white lines or erosive lesions rather than a denture-associated papillary palate eruption. Managing it usually involves improving denture fit, removing the denture at times, and addressing any fungal involvement with antifungal treatment, with surgical reduction if persistent.

Chronic irritation from wearing a denture can cause the mucosa of the hard palate to respond with excess tissue growth, producing multiple red, cobblestone-like papillary projections. This inflammatory papillary hyperplasia is classically seen under a maxillary denture and is often linked to ill-fitting or worn dentures, with Candida infection sometimes contributing to redness and swelling. The other conditions don’t fit this presentation: a periodontal abscess is a localized pus-filled pocket around a tooth; oral candidiasis typically shows white plaques or red, atrophic mucosa rather than papillary projections; and lichen planus presents with lace-like white lines or erosive lesions rather than a denture-associated papillary palate eruption. Managing it usually involves improving denture fit, removing the denture at times, and addressing any fungal involvement with antifungal treatment, with surgical reduction if persistent.