**3. Candida**

Candida refers to a type of fungi that includes over 150 species of yeast. Typically, Candida exists without causing harm in healthy individuals who are not immunosuppressed. It is present in various mucosal areas, such as the ears, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, mouth, nose, reproductive organs, sinuses, skin, stool, and vagina, and is referred to as the "beneficial flora" due to its useful purpose in the body. However, an imbalance in the normal flora can cause *Candida albicans*, among other species, to overgrow and cause a fungal infection called Candidiasis or Thrush.

If Candidiasis occurs, it can lead to significant negative impacts on overall health and well-being it and can create a widespread impairment to our overall health and well-being of body.

Oral candidiasis is one of the fungal diseases affecting the oral mucosa. This infection is caused by the yeast *Candida albicans*. As explained, *Candida albicans* is one of the normal substances of oral microflora, found in approximately 30 to 50% of people. The carrier increased with the age of the patient. One of the conditions associated with Candida is denture stomatitis [2].

### **3.1 Denture stomatitis**

Denture stomatitis is a term that has been applied to an inflammation of the denture-bearing mucosa, which may affect as many as two-thirds of an elderly population of denture wearers. It is more common on the palatal mucosa and in female patients.

### *3.1.1 Classification*

Classification of denture stomatitis is usually based on the clinical appearance of inflamed mucosa observed beneath maxillary complete dentures. The most commonly used classification system is the one proposed by Newton in 1962. He suggested three different types of denture stomatitis: (1) pinpoint hyperemic foci, (2) diffuse hyperemia of the denture-supporting tissues, and (3) papillary hyperplasia. However, Budtz-Jorgensen and Bertram (1970) used different terms: (1) simple localized inflammation, (2) simple diffuse (generalized) inflammation, and (3) granular inflammation.

### *3.1.2 Symptoms*

Denture stomatitis is a condition that often presents without noticeable symptoms. However, some patients may experience mucosal bleeding and swelling, as well as a burning or painful sensation, halitosis, an unpleasant taste, and dryness in the mouth. Studies have estimated that 28–70% of patients with denture stomatitis may report some levels of oral discomfort.
