Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic and progressive condition that involves the mucous lining of the mouth. The condition is debilitating in that it causes not only aesthetic but also functional disturbances as stated by Powell, TN dental services. Although OSMF is prevalent in people of South Asian descent, it affects people of all races. Knowing the causes and symptoms of OSMF is essential in detecting the condition early enough and managing it appropriately.
Causes of OSF:
Oral submucous fibrosis is directly related to areca nut, usually accompanied by tobacco and other similar or additional sources, chewing. The areca or betel nut contains alkaloids and various other chemicals that generate an extremely unfavorable response available for tissue encounters. In this scenario, harmful agents cause inflammation, fibrosis development, and, therefore, the disease. Additionally, other factors may experience this health issue:
- Smoking and/or chewing tobacco.
- Consuming alcohol.
- Susceptible genetic conditions.
- Nutrition deficit, predominantly iron, vitamin B₁₂, and folic acid.
Symptoms of OSMF
It occurs in people differently based on the stage of the disease. Some of these symptoms include; Progressive mouth-opening restriction: individuals gradually lose their mouth-opening capacity in a symptom known as trismus. The limitation becomes intense until the patient can no longer eat, speak, or maintain oral hygiene comfortably
- Difficulty in chewing and swallowing: Fibrosis stiffens the oral tissues resulting in difficulties in chewing food optimally and swallowing smoothly
- A burning sensation in the mouth: Patients experience scorching heat in the mouth when they take hot and spicy food and drinks
- Change in oral tissue texture: Fibrosis makes the oral mucosa appear thickened, and leathery white due to white patches and bands along the cheeks, lips, and tongue
- Difficulty in speaking: Fibrosis limits the movement of the lips and the tongue causing inarticulate speech
- Ear pain: It is a dull, boring pain originating from the jaw into the ears.
Conclusion
OSMF is a long-term health problem. OSMF is a chronic and progressive disease likely to continue destroying the oral lining until there is intervention Once developed, a cure has yet to be discovered. Early identification and avoidance are essential to prevent illness from spreading. If you go through any of the signs or symptoms, or if you are at risk for the issue because you are utilizing slumber nut or tobacco, call your dentist and tell him or her: that it is crucial to seek awareness and verify your risk factors.
