Oral lichen planus and dental implants. Report of 3 cases.

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is generally considered to be a contraindication for the placement of dental implants. This report describes 3 female patients in whom implants were installed, either before OLP developed or thereafter. OLP in all 3 patients was asymptomatic and mostly of the atrophic or mixed atrophic and reticular type. The implants were in place between 15 years and 3 months. Bone resorption around the implants in all 3 patients was on average 3-4 mm. All implants were functioning well. Patients with OLP of the asymptomatic type involving the gingiva may be treated with dental implants, however, strict follow-up is recommended.