Wearing removable dentures may be linked to systemic diseases, especially respiratory conditions, by potentially contributing to the spread of infections and inflammation, according to a review recently published in the Journal of Dentistry.
Further research is needed to better understand how removable dentures may affect or be linked to other systemic diseases, the authors wrote.
“The existing clinical studies suggested a potential positive association between removable denture-wearing and respiratory diseases,” wrote the authors, led by Tong Wah Lim of the University of Hong Kong Faculty of Dentistry (J Dent, July 14, 2025, Vol. 161, 105977).
To evaluate the link between removable denture use and systemic diseases, researchers conducted an electronic search across five databases in 2025. The search yielded 30 articles for review.
Most of the included studies focused on individuals age 70 or older wearing complete or partial removable dentures.
Multiple studies investigated the link between removable dentures and pneumonia risk in older adults, with many suggesting an increased risk for respiratory diseases. Nine studies pointed to unclean dentures and denture plaque as sources of respiratory pathogens. One study connected COVID-19 with increased bacterial buildup on dentures, suggesting a potential link between the virus and microbial growth, they wrote.
Five studies explored cardiovascular outcomes, finding associations with increased cardiovascular disease risk, stroke, and mortality. Other research highlighted negative effects such as higher diabetes prevalence, systemic inflammation, and reduced salivary buffering.
However, the review had limitations. Most of the included studies used cross-sectional or observational designs, limiting their ability to determine causality, the authors added.
“Removable dentures should be viewed not only as rehabilitative prostheses, but also as modifiable contributors to systemic health, warranting closer attention between the medical and dental professions,” they wrote.
