Preparing for an appointment

You'll likely start by seeing your primary care doctor or dentist. Some people with oral lichen planus also develop lichen planus on their skin. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist) or a specialist in gum and dental diseases (periodontist).

What you can do

To get ready for your appointment:

• Bring a copy of all previous consultations and tests you've had about this problem.
• Ask if there's anything you need to do before the appointment, such as restrict your diet.
• Make a list of any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to your sore mouth.
• Make a list of key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements that you're taking, and the dosages.
• Prepare questions to ask your doctor or dentist.

Some basic questions to ask include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• What are other possible causes?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• What's the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
• Are there any printed materials that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor or dentist is likely to ask you several questions, such as:

• When did the lesions or sores appear in your mouth?
• Have you found lesions anywhere else on your body?
• Do you feel any pain, burning sensations or other discomfort in your mouth?
• How would you describe the severity of the pain or discomfort?
• Have you recently started taking new medications?
• Do you take vitamins, herbs, other dietary supplements or nonprescription medicines?
• Do you have any allergies?
• Have you experienced any new or unusual stresses in your life?
• What other health conditions do you have?

Your doctor or dentist will ask additional questions based on your responses, symptoms and needs. Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your time with the doctor or dentist.