Ever experienced white lacy patches inside the walls of your mouth? This condition is very common and can happen to anyone. However, understanding “What triggers oral lichen planus?” can help you avoid it to a great extent.
What Is Oral Lichen Planus?
Oral lichen planus is a long-lasting condition that affects the mouth, causing white patches, redness, and swelling. It doesn’t go away completely, but you can manage it.
It’s not contagious and can affect anyone, though it’s more common in women than men. It usually occurs in people over 40, but kids and young adults can get it, too.
Oral Lichen Planus Symptoms
Lesions from oral lichen planus show up inside your mouth. They can be found in these places:
- Inside your cheeks (this is the most common spot)
- Gums
- Tongue
- Inner parts of your lips
- Roof of your mouth
These lesions can look like white, lacy patches that resemble spiderwebs or red, swollen areas. They can also turn into open sores.
White, lacy lesions usually don’t cause much pain or discomfort. But red, swollen lesions or open sores can be painful. Symptoms can include:
- Burning or stinging pain in the affected area
- Pain or discomfort when talking, eating, or drinking (especially if you have open sores)
- Increased sensitivity to acidic, spicy, rough, or hot foods
- Swollen gums, which can bleed when you brush your teeth.
Is Oral Lichen Planus Dangerous?
No, oral lichen planus is not dangerous, but it can be annoying and bothersome. It is a long-term condition that can’t be cured, but treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce lesions.
Major Triggers
Certain things can cause oral lichen planus to start or flare up if you already have it. These include:
- Some medicines, like painkillers, high blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, and malaria treatments
- A reaction to metal in your mouth, like dental fillings
- Other mouth issues, such as a rough crown or a habit of biting your cheeks or tongue
- Mouth injury
- Food allergies
- Infections
New Treatment for Oral Lichen Planus
If you only feel a slight roughness in your mouth, you might not need treatment. If you’re in pain or have sores, your doctor can recommend a corticosteroid cream. In rare cases, they might prescribe steroid pills.
If your doctor thinks your immune system is causing the symptoms, they might suggest medication to reduce its activity. These medications include:
- Topical Ointment or Gel: Calcineurin inhibitors are medications that work similarly to those used after an organ transplant to prevent rejection. However, they come with an FDA warning because they may increase your risk of cancer.
- Systemic Medications: These are oral medications. Your doctor prescribes them if you have oral lichen planus affecting other parts of your body, such as your scalp, genitals, or esophagus.
Key Note
Knowing “What triggers oral lichen planus is helpful. However, it is not curable. Regular visits to your dentist or healthcare provider can help you control your symptoms and adjust your treatment as needed. They will also check for any signs of mouth cancer.
Visit our dental professionals at Village Park Family Dentists of Cypress. Our dentists will provide you with all the care you need to manage such conditions. Call us at (281) 376-4444 to schedule an appointment.