Common Triggers of Oral Lichen Planus Flares

July 3, 2026

Although the exact cause of OLP is not known, several external factors have been reported to trigger flares. Data shows that avoidance of triggers (where possible) can improve both the severity of symptoms and frequency of flares.

Remember that every patient is different. While the list below includes common triggers, not all will apply to you. Use this list as a starting point to learn what works best for your mouth.

·      Sodium laurel sulfate (SLS) and benzoates (often found in toothpastes)

·      Substances with mint, including mint-flavored toothpastes and mouthwashes 

·      Cinnamon or cinnamon oil

·      Vanilla 

·      Flavored coffee/tea (French vanilla, Hazel nut, Chai tea, etc.) 

·      Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain killers (Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naproxen) 

·      Tomatoes and tomato sauce

·      Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, pineapple, etc.) 

·      Ginger 

·      Garlic 

·      Licorice 

·      Alcohol (including alcohol-based mouthwashes)

·      Tobacco 

·      Vinegar (including vinegar-based dressings and ketchup)

·      Spicy foods

·      Acidic foods (many of the things listed above are acidic in nature)

·      Trauma from rough foods (chips, crusty breads) or dental cleanings/procedures and poorly fitting dental appliances

·      Psychological stress (the most commonly reported trigger)

 

Dr. Donna Culton, Dr. Nancy W. Burkhart, and Dr. Brianna Ingram        

Chen HX, Blasiak R, Kim E, Padilla R, Culton DA. Triggers of oral lichen planus flares and the potential role of trigger avoidance in disease management. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol. 2017 Sep;124(3):248-252. doi: 10.1016/j.oooo.2017.05.508. Epub 2017 May 30. PMID: 28732699.

Eisen D. The clinical features, malignant potential, and systemic associations of oral lichen planus: a study of 723 patients. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Feb;46(2):207-14. doi: 10.1067/mjd.2002.120452. PMID: 11807431.