Oral leukoplakia associated with amalgam restorations

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Dermatology
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Oral leukoplakia (OL) is defined by the WHO as an idiopathic white oral lesion.
• Buccal mucosal lesions can present with symptoms like burning sensations.

Observation:

• A 21-year-old male presented with bilateral buccal mucosal OL and burning sensation.
• The patient had existing amalgam restorations.
• Patch testing revealed a positive reaction to amalgam.

Findings:

• Amalgam restorations were removed and replaced with composite resin.
• No recurrence of oral lesions was observed during a 5-year follow-up period.

Implications:

• This case suggests a potential etiological role for amalgam in the development of oral leukoplakia.
• Removal of causative agents like amalgam may be an effective treatment strategy for OL.
• Highlights the importance of considering dental materials in the differential diagnosis of oral mucosal lesions.