Oral Lichen Planus : Causes, Symptoms and Homeopathic Treatment

Oral Lichen Planus is a chronic inflammatory, a non-infectious disease that causes lesions on the buccal mucosa, tongue and/or gums. It affects approximately 1-2% of the general adult population. Although oral Lichen Planus predominantly occurs in adults older than 40 years, younger adults and children can also be affected. Lichen Planus may affect either skin or mouth or genitals or the nails; or in any combination of two or more.

The role of autoimmunity in the pathogenesis of oral Lichen Planus is supported by many studies. It may be induced by certain drugs (mentioned below), contact allergens in dental materials or toothpaste, mechanical trauma, viral infection or some unidentified agents.

Causes of Oral Lichen Planus

Oral Lichen Planus may be caused by more than one cause. Some drugs often induce it. Stress is also a major trigger factor. The genetic factor is usually found in the background. Oral Lichen Planus is considered pre-cancerous. 

Symptoms of Oral Lichen Planus

• Generally, the onset of oral Lichen Planus is insidious and patients are unaware of its commencement. Usually, the medical or dental practitioner identifies the clinical changes in the oral mucosa on routine examination.
• Common symptoms include a sensation of roughness in the lining of the mouth, sensitivity to hot or spicy foods, soreness of oral mucosa and gums, red or white patches on the oral mucosa and gums, or oral ulcerations.
• The lesions of oral Lichen Planus are usually bilateral.
• Oral Lichen Planus lesions may be associated with patchy brown melanin (pigment) deposits in the oral mucosa.