Pathology · single question
Which finding best describes hyperplastic tissue caused by an ill-fitting or overextended denture flange?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Epulis fissuratum
- A. A fibroma is a reactive fibrous hyperplasia from localized trauma — can occur with dentures but is typically a single, sessile nodule, not the characteristic folds caused by overextended flanges.
- B. EPULIS FISSURATUM (denture-induced fibrous hyperplasia) is the classic lesion caused by an ILL-FITTING or OVEREXTENDED denture flange. It appears as redundant folds of fibrous hyperplastic tissue in the denture border area (vestibule), conforming to the shape of the denture flange. The definitive treatment is surgical excision and new denture fabrication.
- C. Linea alba is a horizontal white line on the buccal mucosa at the level of the occlusal plane — not related to denture flanges.
- D. Papillary hyperplasia occurs on the hard palate under ill-fitting dentures with poor oral hygiene — multiple tiny papillary projections, not the folds from flange overextension.