What is a potential sign of inflammation due to excessive vertical dimension?

Soreness of the edentulous ridge is a potential sign of inflammation that can arise from excessive vertical dimension. When the vertical dimension is increased beyond the patient's optimal structure, it can lead to undue pressure on the residual alveolar ridge. This pressure can cause irritation and inflammation of the soft tissues and bone in that area, manifesting as soreness.

The response of the body to this increased pressure includes a localized inflammatory response, which may also lead to discomfort or pain. Pain or soreness in the edentulous ridge can significantly affect the patient’s ability to wear dental prosthetics comfortably. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for making appropriate adjustments and ensuring patient well-being in denture therapy.

The other choices, while related to dental and anatomical considerations, do not specifically correlate with the context of inflammation caused by excessive vertical dimension. For instance, freezing of the jaw and dehydration of tissues pertain to entirely different physiological or pathological processes, and cavitation in bones refers to structural changes that do not directly result from vertical dimension issues.