Unusual Cause of Gingival Ulcer

Abstract

Background: The early diagnosis of malignant lesions of the oral cavity is one of the primary diagnostic aims of dental practitioners. Ulcerations are common primary lesions. We would like to demonstrate an uncommon differential diagnosis. Case Description: An almost completely edentulous patient suffered from a growing, indolent gingival ulcer on his lower right mandible. He had avoided any kind of dental recall for many years due to a phobia. After radiological evaluation it was clear that his lower prosthesis had caused the frictional ulcer, ground through the bone to a completely retained horizontal second premolar and finally reached the pulp of the tooth itself. Clinical Implications: This report underscores the importance of performing at least one complete radiological evaluation prior to patients receiving partial or complete dentures as well as checkups and oral mucosal examinations after adaptation of the prostheses.