Oral Candidiasis and COVID-19 in Users of Removable Dentures: Is Special Oral Care Needed?

Abstract

Elderly patients with systemic disorders and immunocompromised patients seem to have a higher risk of developing morbidity from COVID-19. <i>Candida albicans</i> (<i>C. albicans</i>) is a potentially dangerous pathogen for these patients, especially for denture wearers with prosthetic stomatitis who require mechanical ventilation. <i>C. albicans</i> infection, the main candidiasis infection associated with denture wear, can complicate COVID-19 and increase the associated morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early diagnosis of <i>C. albicans</i> infection in COVID-19 patients is important to establish more effective antifungal treatment methods and prophylaxis strategies. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients should undergo an oral examination to assess their oral health, and those with poor oral health should receive the appropriate care and monitoring.