Mouth Sores

Lichen Planus

Lichen Planus is a chronic condition affecting both skin and oral mucosa. While its exact cause remains unknown, stress, allergic reactions, and hepatitis C complications may contribute to its development. The condition predominantly affects middle-aged women and manifests as intricate white lacy streaks across oral tissues, including gums, tongue, palate, and lips. In some cases, it presents as small papules on the mucosa.

A more severe variant, erosive lichen planus, produces red, painful sores throughout the mouth and requires careful monitoring due to its potential for malignant transformation. While there's no cure, the condition can be managed with steroids, retinoids, dapsone, and aloe vera treatments.

Viral and Autoimmune Conditions

Herpes Simplex (HSV-1)

HSV-1 manifests as oral cold sores or fever blisters. This highly contagious virus spreads through direct contact, including kissing or sharing personal items. Outbreaks can be triggered by illness, fatigue, stress, or compromised immunity. While treatment can relieve symptoms and prevent future outbreaks, there is no permanent cure.

Pemphigus Vulgaris

This potentially fatal autoimmune disorder begins with oral sores that can spread to other body parts. The condition produces raw, draining blisters that easily peel and require intensive medical intervention. Treatment approaches mirror those used for burn victims, with severe cases requiring ICU care and intravenous feeding.

Common Oral Manifestations

Aphthous Ulcerations

These painful mouth sores, known as canker sores, typically affect adolescents several times yearly. They appear as small, shallow ulcerations with white or gray centers surrounded by red borders. Triggers include stress, citrus fruits, acidic foods, and irritation from dental appliances. While they usually heal independently within a week, antimicrobial rinses may accelerate recovery.

Geographic Tongue

This benign condition creates a distinctive map-like pattern on the tongue's surface due to missing patches of papillae. While it may cause mild discomfort, geographic tongue poses no health risks and typically resolves without intervention. The condition often recurs in different areas of the tongue, following an unpredictable pattern.

Serious Oral Conditions

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This significant form of oral cancer requires immediate medical attention. Early signs include slowly enlarging ulcers or reddish plaques with raised, hardened edges. Males are twice as likely to develop SCC, with peak occurrence around age 66. Risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV exposure. Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Nicotinic Stomatitis

This tobacco-induced condition primarily affects the palatal mucosa. It begins as reddened areas around minor salivary glands and progresses to a white, thickened surface resembling grayish-white cobblestones with red centers. Many sufferers remain unaware of their condition until it's identified during dental examinations.

Regular dental check-ups and prompt attention to persistent oral symptoms are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing serious complications.