Which factor is likely to lead to vestibular erythema in patients wearing removable partial dentures?

The presence of vestibular erythema in patients wearing removable partial dentures is often associated with the overextension of the denture base. When a denture base is overextended, it can create excessive pressure on the soft tissues in the vestibular area, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. This irritation manifests as erythema, or redness, as the body responds to the pressure and irritation in the area.

Overextension can also affect the way the denture fits within the oral cavity. If the denture base extends beyond the natural contours of the gums and mucosa, it may compromise the soft tissues' ability to adapt to the appliance. This results in a lack of proper support and comfort, potentially exacerbating any inflammatory reactions in the tissue.

Maintaining proper contours and extensions of the denture base is crucial to ensuring comfort and preventing irritation. A well-fitted denture should not put undue pressure on surrounding soft tissues, allowing them to remain healthy and free of erythema.