By Ezra Julia
Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic, progressive condition of the oral mucous membranes characterized by fibrosis and reduced mouth opening as advised by a family dental care in Mitchell, SD. Although the condition is irreversible, various treatments can slow its progression and improve symptomatic relief and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss the different modalities of treatment used in the management of oral submucous fibrosis.
Lifestyle modifications:
The first modality treatment of OSMF treatment should be quitting areca nut and tobacco in all forms. Additionally, patients should avoid consuming spicy foods that irritate oral tissues.
Medications:
Topical application of steroids on affected oral mucosa has an anti-inflammatory and healing process. Full-body steroids can also be prescribed in severe cases of OSMF but the patient must be on close monitoring due to their side effects.
Mouth exercise:
Dental physiotherapy exercises such as mouth opening and tongue stretching play a role in reducing stiffness and improving oral opening.
Nutritional component:
Supplementing iron and vitamin B complexes is also part of the treatment for OSF due to an insufficiency that leads to the establishment of OSMF.
Surgical Release of Fibrous Bands:
When OSMF has resulted in significant mouth opening restriction, it may be necessary to surgically release fibrous bands to reestablish mouth opening. This surgery demonstrated as a fibrotomy, is typically completed under comprehensive anesthesia and provided by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Low-Level Laser Therapy:
Low-level laser therapy has been used in some studies to reduce inflammation, increase tissue healing, and improve mouth opening in patients with OSMF. Although further advances need to be done in analyzing LLLT’s efficiency in treating OSMF, it can be favored as a noninvasive and reduced pain choice to relieve mouth opening.
Regular Monitoring:
Patients with OSMF need to receive periodic care to follow the disease’s progression, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and modify management plans. A patient, dentist, and various healthcare providers should collaborate efficiently to provide the best outcomes.
Oral submucous fibrosis is a complicated condition to address, but patients who receive appropriate therapy and make lifestyle transitions may reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life. Lifestyle modifications, medication treatment, surgical interventions, and laser therapy are all possibilities for managing OSMF. A dentist or oral surgeon may assist in creating a tailored treatment plan for the individual.
Because early intervention is crucial to stopping the disease’s development and preventing other complications, if OSMF is likely, the dentist’s examination should not be delayed.
