Treatment of Oral Lichen Planus
Disease description:
Recently, something unusual has grown in my mouth. After an examination, the doctor diagnosed it as oral lichen planus. I would like to ask the doctor: what is the treatment for oral lichen planus?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao
Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the oral mucosa and sometimes may also appear on the skin. The typical symptoms include the appearance of white, lacy streaks or patches, which may be accompanied by mild pain or itching. Treatment of oral lichen planus aims to relieve symptoms, control inflammation, and prevent possible complications. Common treatment methods include:
1. Topical treatment: Application of corticosteroid ointments or gels, such as hydrocortisone or prednisolone, directly onto the affected areas helps reduce inflammation and discomfort.
2. Moisturization: Using mouthwashes or lip balms containing lubricating ingredients can help keep the mouth moist and reduce discomfort.
3. Non-pharmacological therapy: Avoiding irritants such as alcohol and spicy foods may help reduce symptom flare-ups. Maintaining good oral hygiene by regular tooth brushing and flossing, while being gentle to avoid irritation, is also important.
4. Psychological support: As this condition may be associated with stress, psychological counseling and relaxation techniques can sometimes help improve the condition.
5. Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider to monitor disease progression and promptly detect and manage possible complications, such as mucosal ulcers or the risk of malignant transformation.
If symptoms are severe or persist, prompt medical consultation is advised.
