Lichen Planus is a disease that affects your entire body including your mouth. This disease is characterized by white patches on the inner lining of the mouth. Lichen Planus has been linked to development of oral cancer.
Causes
The definite cause of oral Lichen Planus is not completely known. However, there are some factors that may be responsible for the development of this disease. Inefficient immune system or some kind of weakness could be responsible for the disease. This disease could also be a result of an allergic reaction to certain medicines. Some medicines that can trigger this disease include beta blockers, drugs for high blood pressure, painkillers, diabetic medications and penicillamine.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms that accompany this problem include:
* White patches on the mouth- especially the inside cheeks and tongue
* Mild roughness of the oral lining
* Redness and soreness in the mouth
* Ulcers
* Blisters can occur rarely
Eating spicy foods or citrus fruits can cause these symptoms to aggravate. So, it is in your best interest to avoid such foods in case you suspect the presence of the disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Oral Lichen Planus can be a little tricky. This is because the disease appears somewhat similar to various oral allergies. It is for this reason that a biopsy needs to be conducted for correct diagnosis of the disease. A biopsy involves removal of a small piece of tissue from the mouth. Local anaesthesia is given before taking out the tissue. This tissue is carefully examined by an expert to study the presence of the disease.
Treatment
Typically, oral Lichen Planus does not need a treatment. A specific treatment is only required when the symptoms worsen or become more painful. In most cases, application of a corticosteroid cream is the prescribed treatment. In some cases, immunosuppressants may be used. Corticosteroid or other similar tablets may be prescribed in rare cases.
Prevention
Since the exact cause of lichen planus remains unknown, preventing the problem completely may be slightly difficult. However, you can exercise certain precautions to keep the problem at bay. Some of these precautionary measures include:
* Avoid smoking as harmful chemicals can deter the overall health
* Limit your consumption of alcohol
* Eat a healthy and well balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
* Clean your teeth on a regular basis, with the help of a fluoride toothpaste
* Get your teeth and gums checked by a dentist on a regular basis. So, if at all there are any changes in the inner lining of the mouth, they can be diagnosed at an early stage.
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