Oral lichenoid reaction associate with amalgam restorations: A Case report

Abstract

Oral lichenoid reactions are considered variants of oral lichen planus and may be regarded as a disease by itself or as an exacerbation of an existing oral lichen planus by the presence of medication or dental materials. They represent a type IV hypersensitivity reaction and most commonly affect the oral mucosa in direct contact with an amalgam restoration. Oral lichenoid reactions can cause significant discomfort for the patient and hence dentists should be aware of their occurrence, diagnosis and management. Authors report a case of oral lichenoid reaction of the left buccal mucosa associated with an amalgam restoration on tooth #36, 37 and 38. Complete healing of the lesion was noted following replacement of the amalgam with an intermediate restoration, followed later by a glass-ionomer restoration.