Articles

It is a chronic, complex, pre-malignant condition of oral cavity in which there is inflammatory reaction and progressive fibrosis of submucosal tissues. As the condition progresses the patient is unable to open  mouth as the jaws get rigid. The codition is associated with chewing of areca nut/betel quid In the initial phase of the disease, the mucosa feels leathery with palpable fibrotic bands. In the advanced stage the oral mucosa loses its resiliency and becomes blanched and stiff. The disease is believed to begin in the posterior part of the oral cavity and gradually spread outward. Other features of the disease include: Xerostomia Recurrent ulceration Pain in the ear or deafness Nasal intonation of voice Restriction of the movement of the soft palate A budlike shrunken uvula Thinning and stiffening of the lips Pigmentation of the oral mucosa Dryness of the mouth and burning sensation Decreased mouth opening and tongue protrusion Treatment includes: Abstention from chewing areca nut (also known as betel nut) and tobacco Minimizing the consumption of spicy foods, including chilies Maintaining proper oral hygiene Supplementing the diet with foods rich in vitamins A, B complex, and C and iron Forgoing hot fluids like tea, coffee Forgoing alcohol Employing a dental surgeon to round off sharp teeth and extract third molars