Applications of Corticosteroids in Oral Medicine

Corticosteroids are extensively used in oral medicine because of their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. They are indicated in the management of various oral mucosal, autoimmune, inflammatory, vesiculobullous, and granulomatous disorders. Based on disease severity, corticosteroids may be administered topically, intralesionally, or systemically.Topical corticosteroids remain the first-line therapy for localized lesions due to effective symptom control and minimal systemic effects, while systemic therapy is reserved for severe or refractory cases. Corticosteroids are commonly used in conditions such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis, oral lichen planus, oral submucous fibrosis, pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigoid, erythema multiforme, lupus erythematosus, and Behçet's disease.Although highly effective, corticosteroids provide mainly symptomatic relief, and relapse is common after withdrawal. Therefore, rational use with appropriate dosage, duration, and monitoring is essential to minimize adverse effects.