OSMF & Other Oral Pathology
What is Osmf?
Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is an oral precancerous condition characterized by inflammation and progressive fibrosis of the submucosal tissues resulting in marked rigidity and trismus.
A maxillectomy/ pallectomy prosthesis or obturator restores the surgical defect and aids in the function of speaking, chewing or swallowing. It fills the void left by the surgery and artificially replace lost tissues and teeth.
Before
After
Is Osmf reversible?
If the disease is detected at a very early stage, cessation of the habit is sufficient. Most patients with oral submucous fibrosis present with moderate-to- severe disease. Severe oral submucous fibrosis is irreversible. Moderate oral submucous fibrosis is reversible with cessation of habit and mouth opening exercise.
How is Submucous fibrosis treated?
Most patients with oral submucous fibrosis present with moderate-to-severe disease. Moderate-to-severe oral submucous fibrosis is irreversible. Medical treatment is symptomatic and predominantly aimed at improving mouth movements.
Medical Care
The treatment of patients with oral submucous fibrosis depends on the degree of clinical involvement. If the disease is detected at a very early stage, cessation of the habit is sufficient. Most patients with oral submucous fibrosis present with moderate-to-severe disease. Moderate-to-severe oral submucous fibrosis is irreversible. Medical treatment is symptomatic and predominantly aimed at improving mouth movements.
FAQ's
What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?
Buy toothbrushes with soft bristles. Medium and firm ones can damage teeth and gums. Use soft pressure, for 2 minutes, two times a day.Both powered and manual toothbrushes clean teeth well. Manual brushes with mixed bristle heights or angled bristles clean better than those with all flat, even bristles. Powered toothbrushes may be easier if you have trouble using your hands.
Do teeth need fluoride?
Fluoride helps make teeth strong and prevents decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association (ADA), and the CDC all agree that kids should use fluoride toothpaste for brushing, taking care not to swallow it.
Does a rinse or mouthwash help?
Mouthwashes for cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath may help when you use them with regular brushing and flossing -- but not instead of daily cleanings. Your dentist can recommend the best type for you.
Do I really need to floss?
There's no getting around the need to get around your teeth daily with dental floss. It clears food and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline. If you don't, plaque hardens into tartar, which forms wedges and widens the space between teeth and gums, causing pockets. Over time, gums pull away and teeth loosen.
Are dental X-rays safe and needed?
Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for their safety. Your dentist should take as few as possible. Expect to get them during a first exam after not seeing a dentist for a while. This helps check tooth and gum health.
