A complete denture patient presents with erythema and inflammation limited to the denture-bearing area of the hard palate. The tissue appears smooth and granular. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Denture stomatitis is the most common oral mucosal condition in denture wearers, affecting up to 65% of complete denture wearers. It is caused primarily by Candida albicans proliferating under the denture, facilitated by poor denture hygiene, continuous denture wearing (especially at night), and reduced salivary flow. Clinically, it presents as asymptomatic erythema limited to the denture-bearing mucosa, classified by Newton's classification (Type I: pinpoint hyperemia; Type II: diffuse erythema; Type III: papillary hyperplasia). Treatment includes antifungal therapy (nystatin), improved denture hygiene, and removal of the denture at night.