What can cause these changes?
Mucosal changes in the mouth are commonly caused by oral mucosal conditions such as thrush and lichen planus. Oral thrush in particular tends to cause a lot of unpleasant symptoms such as a burning sensation, pain and tenderness. By contrast, lichen planus can be almost entirely unsymptomatic. However, white lacy patches on your mucosa, tongue and gums are a tell-tale sign.
Many other health conditions can cause the mucosa to become eroded and a number of dermatological conditions can also first appear in the mouth. The erosions may be due to metabolic diseases, nutrient deficiencies and inflammatory conditions, and they can also be caused by medicines. Changes to the mucosa can also be the first sign of oral cancer, as malignant growths can cause the lining of the mouth to become eroded in places.
Treating mucosal disease
There are a number of medical conditions that can affect the mouth and the oral mucosa. Your dentist will diagnose the condition causing the changes and prescribe the appropriate treatment. We will always treat the cause of your disease, but some conditions will get better without treatment. If the changes to your mucosa are due to a medical issue, we will refer you to the most appropriate medical doctor. Some mucosal conditions can be treated or the symptoms alleviated with medicines. We will also address any exacerbating factors, including smoothing out any sharp edges or uneven fillings and dentures. If clinically necessary, we may take a biopsy to confirm our diagnosis.
