Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the inside of the mouth, causing swollen and itchy rashes. While there is no cure, symptoms can be treated with medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to an autoimmune response or certain medications.
Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that typically affects the cheeks inside the mouth, although the disease can also develop in other parts of the mouth such as the gums, tongue and lips. This disease is characterized by swollen and itchy rashes. While there is no cure for oral lichen planus, the symptoms of the disease can be treated.
Symptoms of lichen planus can include a downy-looking rash that runs down the tongue or cheeks, a burning, painful, or dry mouth, and open red sores. People with this condition may experience other symptoms such as sore gums or a decreased sense of taste. Some sufferers experience ulcers or lesions, although this is less common.
No one knows exactly what causes oral lichen planus. Current theories lean toward the idea that lichen planus develops as a result of an autoimmune response. This results in inflammation of the mucous membranes.
Although the exact causes of oral lichen planus remain unknown, people can increase their risk of developing oral lichen planus by taking certain types of medications used to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions. Also, those who have immune disorders may be more likely to develop lichen planus. Allergies to food additives, dyes, or dental metals can also trigger this condition.
Oral lichen planus typically develops more often in adults than in children. Also, lichen planus is more common among women than men. Lichen planus is a chronic condition. An outbreak can last for months or up to years.
Treatment of oral lichen planus depends on the severity of the condition. Also, doctors may look to see if an underlying medical problem has led to the development of lichen planus. People who have mild symptoms may not require any kind of treatment other than brushing and flossing teeth regularly, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, reducing or stopping drinking alcohol, or using tobacco products.
If symptoms are more severe, a doctor may prescribe antihistamines, corticosteroids in the form of ointments or pills, or mouthwashes or sprays to help numb the mouth. Also, a doctor may prescribe immunosuppressant drugs to reduce the immune system. People may need to try several options before finding the most effective medications for treating oral lichen planus.
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