Oral Ulcers

[The College] [The Center]

Picture

I have Behcets.  Oral ulcers have been a problem for me and nothing controls them very well.  Prednizone will but I do not like to use this drug.  I have a certain spot on my lower front tooth where the gum has been totally destroyed due to a recurrant apthous ulcer that forms there and the tooth and its root is completely  showing.  Sometimes it is painful.  The last dentist I saw told me there was nothing to be done except wait until this tooth falls out and then get a bridge.  Is that my only solution?


As you have discovered, Behcets can cause some severe mouth ulcers. If you currently have an ulcer, then the problem with your front tooth is serious and should be treated. There are treatments for exposed root surfaces which I am sure your dentist or a periodontist can discuss with you. If the situation is extreme, however, extraction and a bridge may be the best option.

Meanwhile, mouth ulcers associated with Behcets can sometimes be treated with topical corticosteroids instead of systemic prednisone. The use of the topical prevents the usual side effects of the steroid. If you will have your dentist contact me, I'll be happy to discuss your situation with him.

Terry D. Rees, DDS, MSD
Chair, Department of Periodontics
Baylor College of Dentistry
Dallas, TX
 

Copyright(c) Continuing Education Foundation, 1995-1998
All Rights Reserved