Chemical oral burn cum erosive gingival lesion arising from self-medication for toothache

Abstract

Chemical burn of the oral mucosa occurring as a result of a noxious agent placed in direct contact with the mucosa either by the patient or a dentist is frequently associated with gingival erosion. The objective of this study was to report a case of chemical oral burn with erosive gingival lesion due to self medication with nonsteroid anti inflammatory drug topically in patient with acute apical abscess. We report a case of 63-year-old male public servant with health insurance that presented to the periodontology clinic with chemical oral burns and erosive gingival lesion due to topical application of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for relief of toothache from apical abscess of lower left central incisor (tooth 31). The patient was advised to discontinue topical application of Anacin. Full-mouth scaling was done, oral hygiene instructions given, warm saline mouthrinse therapy prescribed, and patient referredb to the conservative clinic where root canal treatment. Increased public awareness is required regarding chemical injuries that can result from topical self-medication. Dentists must recognize the local effects of topically applied aspirin as well as other medications on the oral mucosa and incorporate them into the treatment plan to prevent complications.