What should you know about oral lichen planus?

The inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or other mouth surfaces may show a lacy white pattern, white lines, red areas, or shallow sores. Burning or tenderness can make spicy, acidic, salty, or rough foods uncomfortable. The condition is inflammatory rather than an infection that spreads through ordinary contact. A clinician may examine the mouth closely and sometimes recommend a small sample of tissue when the appearance is uncertain or a sore persists.

Use a soft toothbrush and a gentle toothpaste, and keep regular dental cleaning appointments. Choose cooler, softer foods while the mouth is tender; avoid tobacco and anything that clearly triggers stinging. A clinician may prescribe a corticosteroid medicine applied inside the mouth, or another treatment suited to the affected areas. Do not apply a skin product inside the mouth unless a clinician specifically tells you to. More background is available in [Lichen Planus](/conditions/lichen-planus/) and [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/).

Arrange an examination for a mouth sore, patch, or burning that does not settle, especially if eating becomes difficult. Seek prompt care for bleeding, a growing or hardened area, unexplained weight loss, or trouble swallowing. Ongoing oral lichen planus benefits from follow-up because the mouth lining can change over time; a dentist, oral medicine clinician, or dermatologist can decide how often it should be checked.

Ask which mouth areas are involved, whether a biopsy is useful, how to use any prescribed medicine, and which foods or products should be avoided. Confirm how dental reviews will fit with dermatology follow-up.