LAUSR

Plaque control improved OHIP-14 and gingival lesion severity. The aim of this clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of dental plaque and oral healthcare motivation on clinical variables in patients with gingival oral lichen planus. Sixty oral lichen planus patients with symptomatic gingival lesions were randomised into control and intervention groups. The intervention group was instructed to effectively remove bacterial biofilm from dental surfaces, while controls did not receive any advice. The outcome variables included: quality of life (OHIP-14), pain, plaque index and clinical severity of the disease (Escudier index). Outcome variables were assessed at zero, four and 20 weeks. Regression analysis showed a significant positive trend of OHIP-14, plaque index and Escudier index in the intervention group compared to controls. Pain did not prove significantly different. Plaque control improved both OHIP-14 and gingival lesion clinical severity. The authors concluded that hygienists being involved in the multidisciplinary management of patients affected by oral lichen planus with gingival lesions is a positive benefit.