Case report of oral mucosa garlic burn during COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and role of teledentistry to manage oral health in an older adult woman

Background: The COVID-19 global pandemic and the uncertainty of an effective treatment protocol have resulted in fear and anxiety, which have increased the search for natural products to prevent the disease and to manage the symptoms. Aims: To discuss the negative effects of garlic used as a preventive measure against the novel coronavirus. Methods and results: This study reports a case of oral mucosa burn on the dorsal surface of the tongue in a 72-year-old woman. The patient was using raw garlic daily during the pandemic to improve her immunological system. She scheduled a dental appointment and was assessed by teledentistry due to the pandemic, in which a detailed anamnesis was carried out. The burned area and ulceration were identified by video call and photographs. The patient was instructed to cease the habit immediately and change to a soft and non-acid/spicy/hot diet, which resulted in a great recovery 2 days later. She was monitored for 2 weeks until her tongue was completely healed. Conclusion: This case highlights the consequences of inappropriate use of natural product and how self-treatment could negatively influence oral health. Additionally, it shows the importance of teledentistry for oral diagnosis and treatment during a pandemic.