What is Oral Lichen Planus?
Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the lining of the mouth. The underlying cause is not fully understood, though it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response attacking the cells of the oral mucosa.
OLP affects up to 2% of the population, occurring most frequently in middle age, and is slightly more common in women than men. It is not contagious, is not related to nutrition, and is not cancer - though in rare cases, long-standing erosive OLP may be associated with a small increased risk of oral cancer, making regular dental monitoring important.
Symptoms and Challenges
Oral lichen planus presents in several forms and typically affects the inside of the cheeks, gums, tongue, palate and the inner surface of the lips. Lesions may appear as:
- Lacy, white raised patches (the reticular form - often painless)
- Red, swollen, tender patches of tissue
- Open sores or ulcers (erosive form - often the most painful and disruptive)
These can cause significant pain and discomfort when talking, eating or drinking. Sensitivity to hot, acidic or spicy foods is common, and gum inflammation may cause bleeding when brushing. Dry mouth is prevalent in OLP, compounding the soreness and making the tissues more vulnerable to irritation.
Known triggers include certain medications (some high blood pressure drugs, painkillers and diabetes medications) and stress. Avoiding acidic foods during flare-ups can help manage symptoms.
How XyliMelts can help
- Provides immediate soothing lubrication on application - directly addressing the dryness that worsens OLP discomfort
- Coats the oral tissues with a gentle, sustained moisture layer - reducing friction and irritation when talking or eating
- Reduces the risk of dental caries - particularly important as dry mouth associated with OLP accelerates decay
- Mild natural mint and unflavoured variants available - the unflavoured disc is ideal for those with sensitivity to taste or flavour
- Xylitol content is pH-neutral and acid-free - will not aggravate already-sensitive oral tissues
- Discreet for daytime use - allows people to manage symptoms comfortably in social and professional settings
- Can be used at night to soothe and protect the oral tissues while sleeping - reducing morning soreness and dryness
- Free from alcohol, SLS, gluten and peanuts - suitable for people with multiple oral sensitivities
Using XyliMelts at Night
For people with oral lichen planus, waking with a dry, sore mouth is a common and distressing experience.
The absence of saliva during sleep removes its protective and soothing properties from already-inflamed tissues.
XyliMelts applied at bedtime provide a sustained coating of moisture through the night - calming inflammation, protecting against bacterial overgrowth, and helping to reduce the soreness that often greets OLP sufferers each morning.