Expert: Eric Brandt - 7/17/2009

Question
hello, eric.  after 3 biopsies over 3 years, i have been given a diagnosis of oral lichen planus/leucoplasia.  it has remained localized and constant.  the irritation while eating and talking is just awful!  steroids have not helped, nor has replacement dental work of the lower left molars, which always feel like they are rubbing against the area.  one oral pathologist felt it was not classical olp, but an immune reaction due to components or irritants in my adjacent molar dental work.  my regular dentist almost laughs when i ask about reactivity to dental components or metallic toxicity.  is there something i can take to help relieve this issue, and are there any medical tests that would be advantageous to help determine if i am having a reaction to my adjacent dental work?  thanks

Answer
Hi Jay,
Dental work used today is pretty inert. I have not heard of reactions to it. You may have OLP which is an autoimmune reaction. The appearance of sores can be reduced by reducing stress, avoiding spicy and acidic foods.. In the event of a sore appearing you could try Hydroxyzine (you need a pred=scription for it) which is an antihistamine/antianxiety that works well for these type of reactions.
Thank you for using Allexperts
Sincerely,
Eric Brandt, B.Sc. Pharm