We all know about plaque, tartar, tooth decay, and gum disease, but that’s not the end of the oral health concerns we can face. There are numerous conditions we may face that can be a concern for our smile. Some of these conditions can be uncomfortable or painful, while others may be subtle and difficult to detect. Oral Lichen Planus is one condition that falls into the former category but isn’t well-known outside of dental circles.
Identification and Treatment of Oral Lichen Planus
Oral lichen planus is an oral health concern that impacts the mucus membranes within our mouth. It is commonly uncomfortable or even painful but is also entirely treatable. Oral lichen planus is typically identified based on its symptoms or as part of a standard oral health exam. There are several common indicators that our team looks for as part of your care, including:
- Fine lines or white patches within the oral cavity
- Inflamed or red areas in the mouth
- Ulcers or open sores
- Discomfort or burning sensations within the mouth
- Metallic tastes or changes in the taste of food.
- Dry mouth
If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to see the team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Palm City. We can help identify if you’re experiencing a case of oral lichen planus or if the source of these symptoms lies elsewhere.
Treatment options are available when oral lichen planus has been identified as the cause of your symptoms. While there is no cure for the condition, the first goal is to manage the discomfort or pain resulting from the condition. Common treatment approaches include numbing agents and corticosteroids that work to ease the inflammation. Immunosuppressants are sometimes used to calm the immune system response responsible for the condition.
The underlying cause of this condition isn’t well understood, but it’s known to be associated with a deficiency in vitamin B12. Further, it often appears alongside autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes.
Spicy foods, citrus fruits, limes, oranges, raw tomatoes, chilies, and other foods are known to exacerbate the symptoms of this condition. Further, mints, red wine, cinnamon, and many teeth-whitening products have been reported to significantly increase the discomfort and pain this condition causes.
Most patients who experience this condition must manage it for a lifetime. The team here at Aesthetic Dentistry of Palm City is committed to helping our patients manage health conditions like these. Together, we can find effective ways of managing your symptoms and limiting oral lichen planus’s impact on your quality of life.
Contact Aesthetic Dentistry of Palm City For More
If you’re struggling with this condition and are looking for help overcoming the challenges associated with it, call us today. Our team will work closely with you to help you understand the nature of your condition and what steps you can take to limit its impact on your life. Start with a call to (772) 283-8350 or stop by our office in Palm City, FL, to consult with our team and begin your treatment.
