What is a common cause of pain on swallowing with a denture?

Pain on swallowing with a denture is often associated with the overextension of the lingual flange. When the lingual flange of a denture is too long or positioned incorrectly, it can cause discomfort by irritating the soft tissues of the mouth. This irritation can become particularly noticeable when swallowing, as the movements involved can exacerbate the pressure and friction against these sensitive areas.

Inadequate saliva production can lead to dry mouth and discomfort while swallowing, but it is less specifically linked to the pain experienced with dentures compared to the mechanics of the appliance itself. Incorrect bite adjustment primarily affects the occlusal contact and can lead to jaw discomfort or other issues, but it does not directly correlate with pain during the act of swallowing. The use of hard materials could contribute to discomfort or irritation, but the specific dynamics of how a denture fits and interacts with the oral tissues are usually more pertinent to swallowing pain. Hence, overextension of the lingual flange is the most common and direct cause of the pain experienced during swallowing with dentures.