What may indicate that a remnant of the denture base is improperly contoured?

Residual ridge erythema signifies inflammation or irritation of the underlying soft tissues, which is often a result of improper contouring of the denture base. When the contour is not ideal, it can lead to an uneven distribution of pressure on the soft tissues during function, causing inflammation and redness. This is a direct indication that the denture base is not fitting well, as the contour should ideally match the anatomy of the underlying ridge to ensure even pressure and avoid soft tissue trauma.

A loose fit, while a concern, does not specifically relate to contouring; it may be associated with other factors like changes in the alveolar ridge. Similarly, while pain during chewing and difficulty in placement can stem from contour issues, they can also arise from other factors like denture retention or stability. Thus, the presence of erythema is a more specific indicator of improper contouring of the denture base.