Lichen planus is a long-term situation. It could possibly have an effect on the mouth and typically different elements of the physique.
Oral lichen planus is extra widespread in adults, particularly girls.
What does it seem like?
The commonest signal is:
- White patches contained in the mouth, typically on the within of the cheeks.
- It could possibly additionally seem on the tongue and gums.
It’s not at all times painful. However typically you might also have:
- Purple areas.
- Sore patches.
- Mouth ulcers.
In case your mouth is sore, sure meals could make it worse, equivalent to:
- Citrus fruits.
- Tomatoes.
- Scorching or spicy meals.
What causes lichen planus?
The precise trigger is usually unclear.
It might be linked to:
- Modifications within the immune system.
- Stress.
- A response to some medicines, together with:
- Some painkillers.
- Medicines for diabetes.
- Medicines for hypertension.
- Beta-blockers.
Lichen planus isn’t an an infection.
It doesn’t unfold from individual to individual.
It doesn’t often run in households.
Does it go away?
Lichen planus is often a long-term situation.
Therapy can’t remedy it, however it may possibly assist management signs. Your dentist or physician could counsel:
- Steroid gels or lotions for the mouth.
- Medicines that calm the immune system.
It’s also possible to assist by avoiding meals and drinks that make your mouth sore.
Are there any long-term dangers?
There could also be a small hyperlink between oral lichen planus and mouth most cancers.
Solely a small variety of individuals with long-term lichen planus develop mouth most cancers. Your dentist will keep watch over any adjustments.
If wanted, you could be referred for a biopsy. This can be a easy take a look at the place:
- The realm is numbed first.
- A small piece of tissue is eliminated.
- The tissue is checked in a laboratory.
Common dental check-ups are necessary so any adjustments may be noticed early.
When you discover new patches, ongoing soreness, or adjustments in your mouth, see your dental workforce.
