Abstract

Traumatic oral lesions are common clinical findings that can affect individuals of all ages and significantly impact oral function, aesthetics, and quality of life. These lesions result from mechanical, thermal, chemical, or electrical insults to the oral mucosa and can be either acute or chronic. Common causes include accidental biting, poorly fitting prosthetics, orthodontic appliances, sharp tooth edges, and habits such as bruxism or cheek chewing. Traumatic lesions may mimic other serious oral pathologies, including malignancies, necessitating careful clinical assessment for accurate diagnosis. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies for traumatic oral lesions. It discusses the classification of lesions, highlighting the distinctions between physical trauma, iatrogenic injuries, and self-inflicted wounds. Diagnostic procedures include thorough patient history, clinical examination, and, where needed, adjunctive tools such as biopsy or imaging to rule out neoplasms and infections. Management approaches are discussed in terms of lesion severity, duration, and underlying causes. Treatment typically involves the removal of the source of trauma, symptomatic relief with topical agents, patient education on oral hygiene and behavior modification, and follow-up care to ensure resolution. In cases of non-healing or atypical lesions, further diagnostic workup is warranted to exclude other systemic or malignant conditions. The paper emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving dentists, oral medicine specialists, and, when necessary, medical professionals to ensure comprehensive care. Increased awareness and early intervention can significantly reduce patient morbidity and prevent complications associated with chronic traumatic lesions.