How Are Oral Lesions Treated?

The treatment of oral lesions involves the following steps:

Diagnosis is usually made on clinical grounds with laboratory testing.
Predisposing factors should be treated or eliminated where feasible.
Good oral hygiene is important. Oral hygiene should include daily cleaning of the teeth, buccal cavity, tongue, and dentures.
Topical antifungals given for 2 weeks are usually effective for uncomplicated oral candidiasis.
Systemic antifungals should be given to patients intolerant to topical antifungals.
Antiviral therapy should be given to patients with oral lesions of a viral cause.

Oral lesions are a public health challenge globally. The most common oral lesions include:

Oral candidiasis: It is a localized infection and are of three types:
- Pseudomembranous/Thrush: This type is characterized by white plaques that can be wiped off.
- Erythematous: A roughly symmetric red lesion in the tongue along with a burning sensation.
- Perleche or angular cheilitis: It involves inflammation and small cracks in one or both corners of the mouth.
Recurrent herpes labialis: Reactivation of infection with herpes simplex virus after an initial infection leads to recurrent herpes labialis. Reactivation occurs due to some of the trigger factors.
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: It is characterized by a small, shallow sore inside the mouth or at the base of the gum. These sores may be recurring and painful.
Erythema migrans: It is a large rash measuring about 2-212 inch. These rashes expand gradually. Some patients may complain of pain or burning while eating spicy food.
Hairy tongue: A temporary condition where the tongue appears dark and furry.
Lichen planus: It is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects mucous membranes inside your mouth.