Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary cause of gingivitis in patients with partial dentures is plaque accumulation. When a patient has a partial denture, the prosthesis can create conditions that favor the buildup of plaque around the remaining natural teeth and the supporting gingival tissues. If oral hygiene practices are not adequately maintained, plaque can accumulate, leading to inflammation of the gums, which is the hallmark of gingivitis.

The presence of a partial denture itself may make access for cleaning more challenging, and without regular and effective oral hygiene, plaque can quickly accumulate on both the natural teeth and any surface of the partial denture that comes in contact with the gums. This accumulation not only irritates the gum tissue but can also predispose the patient to periodontal disease if left untreated.

In contrast, while the placement of dentures, tissue irritation from metal components, and food impaction can contribute to oral health issues, they do not primarily drive the development of gingivitis like plaque accumulation does. Proper oral hygiene, including thorough cleaning of both the dentures and the natural dentition, is crucial in preventing gingivitis and maintaining overall gum health in patients with partial dentures.