Chronic desquamative gingivitis and oral health-related quality of life

Chronic desquamative gingivitis is a clinical description of the gingiva which is often a presenting manifestation of dermatoses or mucocutaneous disorders. The patients often experience oral discomfort and pain, which can significantly compromise their life qualities.

Here we present a case of chronic desquamative gingivitis in a 77-year-old woman with periodontitis. After establishment of oral hygiene, initial periodontal therapy including topical steroid application was performed. Subsequent periodontal surgery resulted in further reduction of local inflammation. These interventions lead to a significant improvement in gingival lesions as well as oral health-related quality of life.

Chronic desquamative gingivitis is often a presenting manifestation of dermatoses or mucocutaneous disorders. Correct and early diagnosis is important. Management of inflammatory conditions including periodontitis can contribute to the clinical resolution of chronic desquamative gingivitis and improve life quality of the patient. A greater awareness of this condition among dentists and dermatologists would be helpful in providing patient-centered care.