Contact Dermatitis of the Lips and Oral Mucosa: What is Important?

The lips and oral mucosa are continuously exposed to irritants and allergens.The spectrum of oral contact reactions can include contact cheilitis, contact stomatitis, oral lichenoid reactions and burning mouth syndrome.The main causes of these reactions are dental materials, which contain metals.Another common allergens are fragrances, which are found in cosmetics, oral hygiene products and are also used as food flavourings.Diagnosis requires careful history taking and performing a patch test, which should include extended series such as dental screening series and cosmetic series.Sometimes, a histological examination is also needed to confirm the diagnosis.