Oral lichen planus: Identification and management

This review course will discuss identification of oral lichen planus and its management.

3 CE Credits

This course is now closed. We apologize for any inconvenience.

A peer-reviewed course written by Gregori M. Kurtzman, DDS, MAGD, FACD, FPFA, DADIA, DICOI, DIDIA

Abstract

Oral lichen planus—a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated condition—may result in erosion of the oral mucosa. The disease presents in four forms—reticular, erosive, atrophic, or bullous—and typically develops in women in their fifth and sixth decades. Reticular oral lichen planus, when absent of erythema, is asymptomatic and does not typically require intervention. However, there is clinical potential of conversion to carcinoma with reticular oral lichen planus associated with erythema or erosion. This potential requires treatment and periodic reevaluation for tissue changes that may indicate conversion to carcinoma. The erosive and ulcerated forms of oral lichen planus are best managed with topical corticosteroids. Refractory cases are recommended to be treated with systemic steroids or other immunosuppressive medications. Nonmedication-based interventions are also available, but with greater potential for adverse reactions, greater degree of side effects, and at greater cost. This review course will discuss identification of oral lichen planus and its management.

Educational objectives

At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the clinical presentation of oral lichen planus

2. Identify the different forms of lichen planus and differentiate them from lichenoid reaction

3. Understand how to treat lichen planus and manage patient comfort

4. Identify interventions discussed in the literature that are supported by limited evidence


Gregori M. Kurtzman, DDS, MAGD, FACD, FPFA, DADIA, DICOI, DIDIA, is in private general dental practice in Silver Spring, Maryland, and is a former assistant clinical professor at University of Maryland in the department of restorative dentistry and endodontics. He is a former AAID Implant Maxi-Course assistant program director at Howard University College of Dentistry. Dr. Kurtzman has lectured internationally on the topics of restorative dentistry; endodontics, implant surgery, and prosthetics; removable and fixed prosthetics; and periodontics. He has published more than 720 articles, several ebooks, and textbook chapters. Dr. Kurtzman has earned fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), American College of Dentists (ACD), International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI), Pierre Fauchard Academy, and Association of Dental Implantology (ADI). He has attained mastership in the AGD and ICOI, and diplomate status in the ICOI, American Dental Implant Association (ADIA), and the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA). He is a consultant and evaluator for multiple dental companies. Dr. Kurtzman has been honored to be included in the “Top Leaders in Continuing Education”by Dentistry Today annually since 2006 and was featured on their June 2012 cover.  He can be reached at dr_kurtzman@maryland-implants.com.

Image credit: © Henadzi Pechan | Dreamstime.com
Quick Access Code: 21004

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Course Includes

  • 8 Lessons
  • 1 Test
  • Course Certificate
  • CE credit(s): 3

    Course Type: Written

    Published Date: May 2021

    This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.

    This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.

    Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.

    Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.

    Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.

    CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.

    Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.

    Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.

    Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.

    Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.

    Registration: The cost of this CE course is Expired for 3 CE credits.

    Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.

    Provider information:

    Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: 03-5933-21004. Expires April 2024. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”

    PACE

    Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
    Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
    11/1/2022 to 10/31/2024.
    Provider ID# 320452
    AGD code: 730

    AADH

    Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPNW (January 1, 2022–December 31, 2024). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code:

    ADA CERP

    Endeavor Business Media is an ADA CERP–recognized provider.

    ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

    Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.

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