
When you visit us for your regular checkup we're examining more than your teeth and gums. We're also checking to see if you're having problems with soft tissues in and around your mouth.
Besides canker sores, rashes or other types of abnormalities, our exam may uncover strange looking lesions known as lichen planus on the inside of the mouth. These purple-tinted bumps or rash-like discolorations are named for their similarity in appearance to lichen fungi found on trees or rocks. Although these mouth sores may look odd, they're fairly rare and usually do not cause concern.
Most people don't even know they have lichen planus until it's discovered during a dental exam. If there are any symptoms, it's usually a feeling of roughness, tenderness or itching. They may increase your sensitivity to spicy or acidic foods, but rarely cause extreme pain. If they're located around the gums, you may also notice a little soreness after brushing or eating.
To confirm it is lichen planus, we need to perform a biopsy. During this procedure, we remove a tiny amount of the affected tissue and have it examined microscopically. We do this not only to determine the correct diagnosis, but also to rule out more serious problems like pre-cancerous lesions or oral cancer.
Thankfully, though, this worst case scenario is quite rare, and although the condition can't be cured, there are some things you can do to keep any discomfort to a minimum. If the lesions are irritating, we recommend using a soft toothbrush with gentle brushing action. You may also want to limit or avoid spicy or acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, hot peppers and caffeinated drinks. Managing stress can also help. For some extreme conditions, we can prescribe a topical steroid to help relieve discomfort.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, be sure to contact us or point it out at your next appointment. Once we know what we're dealing with, we can take steps to treat you.
If you would like more information on different types of mouth sores, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Lichen Planus.”
Comments:
Find Us
American Dental Professionals
2675 N Mayfair Rd, # 650
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
(414) 257 - 1230
Request Appointment
Our office has flexible hours to fit your busy schedule
Patient Eductation

Archive:
- 2021
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
- 2013
Tags
- Welcome (1)
- oral health (24)
- celebrity smiles (80)
- oral hygiene (24)
- blood pressure medication (1)
- cosmetic dentistry (14)
- orthodontics (10)
- tads (1)
- crown (1)
- dental injuries (1)
- dental implants (8)
- periodontal plastic surgery (1)
- bonding (2)
- clear aligners (2)
- braces (9)
- dental injury (9)
- mouthguards (5)
- bad breath (3)
- gum surgery (1)
- dental hygiene (1)
- financing (1)
- root canal (1)
- geographic tongue (2)
- bridge (1)
- orthodontic treatment (18)
- adult orthodontics (1)
- osteoporosis (1)
- oral surgery (4)
- headgear (1)
- wisdom teeth (4)
- cosmetic gum surgery (1)
- dental exam (1)
- nutrition (4)
- diabetes (3)
- periodontal (gum) disease (2)
- air abrasion (1)
- pregnancy (3)
- cleft lip (2)
- cleft palate (2)
- sealants (1)
- tooth decay (4)
- chipped teeth (2)
- sensitive teeth (1)
- abscessed tooth (1)
- teeth whitening (2)
- teeth wear (1)
- gum disease (13)
- athletic mouthguards (1)
- dentures (3)
- pediatric care (1)
- infection control (1)
- frenectomy (1)
- root canal treatment (4)
- crowns (5)
- thumb sucking (3)
- porcelain veneers (6)
- removable dentures (1)
- periodontal disease (2)
- dentistry (1)
- seniors (1)
- tooth grinding (1)
- mouth rash (1)
- retainers (3)
- pediatric dentistry (9)
- mouth sores (1)
- teething (2)
- dental emergency (1)
- dental implant bridge (1)
- mouthguard (1)
- teeth grinding (4)
- bruxism (1)
- oral cancer (3)
- tooth pain (3)
- bone grafting (1)
- chipped tooth (5)
- retainer (2)
- dental care (2)
- gum recession (1)
- artificial sweeteners (1)
- laser dentistry (1)
- dental anxiety (1)
- x-rays (2)
- lingual braces (2)
- crown lengthening (1)
- bonded retainer (1)
- gummy smile (1)
- toothache (1)
- extraction (1)
- sedation dentistry (2)
- tooth replacement (1)
- tmj disorders (2)
- jaw pain (1)
- topical fluoride (1)
- vitamins (1)
- dental implant (4)
- vaping (2)
- smile makeover (2)
- dry mouth (1)
- missing teeth (1)
- veneers (1)
- fluoride (1)