Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffFactors that may complicate the condition or worsen symptoms include:
- Tobacco products
- Alcohol
- Rough dental work
- Poorly fitting dentures
- Poor oral habits, such as biting the lip or cheeks
- Buildup of dental plaque or tartar
- Stress
In addition, oral lichen planus may increase the risk of oral cancers, particularly a type known as squamous cell carcinoma. To help prevent cancer, take these actions:
- Get oral cancer screenings annually or as directed by your doctor.
- If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Talk to your doctor to see if you should avoid alcohol completely.
- If you use any tobacco products, quit. Talk to your doctor if you need help ending a tobacco habit.
References
- Lichen planus. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec10/ch116/ch116g.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2013.
- Patil A, et al. Oral bullous lichen planus: Case report and review of management. Contemporary Clinical Dentistry. 2012;3:344.
- Lehman JS, et al. Lichen planus. International Journal of Dermatology. 2009;48:682.
- Farhi D, et al. Pathophysiology, etiologic factors, and clinical management of oral lichen planus. Part I: Facts and controversies. Clinics in Dermatology. 2010;28:100.
- Brewer JD, et al. Lichen planus and cicatrical conjunctivitis: Disease course and response to therapy of 11 patients. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2011;25:100.
- Lichen planus. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/lichen-planus/lichen-planus. Accessed Feb. 4, 2013.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 8, 2013.
- Bruce AJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 25, 2013.


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