Abstract

ackground: This study aimed to determine the effect of the consumption of a probiotic on the clinical characteristics of Candida-associated denture stomatitis (DS) and to determine the impact of a protocol of self-care measures in oral/pros- thetic hygiene in institutionalized elders that wear removable prostheses (RP). The current treatment for DS is the sys- temic use of antifungals, as well as the replacement of these devices together with oral/prosthetic hygiene instructions. Methods: This study was a randomized, controlled and triple-blind trial. Thirty-six elders presenting DS of different severity and who carried RP consumed milk with/without the probiotic L. rhamnosus SP1. The prevalence and severity of DS and prevalence of Candida were determined and all participants/caregivers were trained in oral/prosthetic hygiene. Results: In both groups a decrease in the prevalence of DS was observed (P < 0.05) but only the group that consumed probiotic throughout the trial had a significant reduction in the severity of DS and reduced Candida counts (P < 0.05). Educational instruction in oral/prosthetic hygiene was relevant for the participants, regarding the prevalence of this lesion. Conclusions: The frequent consumption of Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 and the establishment of a protocol of oral/ prosthetic hygiene drastically reduced the severity of DS in institutionalized elders who wore RP.