Posted on 11/15/2024 by Randolph Center for Dental Excellence
Have you ever noticed a white patch on your gums, tongue, or inside of your cheek? It might be leukoplakia, a condition that can affect anyone, but is more common in people who smoke or use smokeless tobacco. While it's usually harmless, sometimes leukoplakia can turn into oral cancer. That's why it's important to be aware of this condition and know when to see a dentist.
What is Leukoplakia?
Leukoplakia is a condition that causes thick, white patches to form on the inside of your mouth. These patches can be slightly raised or flat, and they can be smooth or rough. In most cases, leukoplakia is painless, but sometimes it can be irritating or cause a burning sensation.
What Causes Leukoplakia?
The most common cause of leukoplakia is tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco. Other causes include:
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Alcohol use
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Poor oral hygiene
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Ill-fitting dentures
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Sun exposure (for lip leukoplakia)
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Certain medications
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A weakened immune system
How is Leukoplakia Diagnosed?
If you notice a white patch in your mouth, it's important to see a dentist right away. They will examine your mouth and ask you about your medical history and lifestyle habits. They may also take a biopsy of the patch to rule out oral cancer.
How is Leukoplakia Treated?
The treatment for leukoplakia depends on the cause. If it's caused by tobacco use, the first step is to quit. Your dentist may also recommend:
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Regular dental cleanings
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Avoiding irritants, such as alcohol and spicy foods
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Using special mouthwashes
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Taking medications to reduce inflammation
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the leukoplakia.
Can Leukoplakia Turn into Cancer?
In most cases, leukoplakia is not cancerous. However, about 5% of leukoplakia cases do turn into oral cancer. This is why it's important to see a dentist regularly for checkups and to get any suspicious lesions biopsied.
How Can I Prevent Leukoplakia?
The best way to prevent leukoplakia is to practice good oral care, including:
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Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily
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Seeing your dentist for regular checkups
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Quitting smoking and using smokeless tobacco
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Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
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Eating a healthy diet
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Protecting your lips from the sun
The Bottom Line
Leukoplakia is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it's usually harmless, it's important to see a dentist if you notice any white patches in your mouth. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most cases of leukoplakia can be successfully managed.
By practicing good oral hygiene and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can help reduce your risk of developing leukoplakia and other oral health problems.
Randolph Center for Dental Excellence Dr. Bryan Freeman and Dr. Cheryl Freeman
Dental Blog | Dentist Asheboro, NC | Randolph Center for Dental Excellence Drs. Bryan Freeman & Cheryl Freeman are offering this educational blog as a resource to the great Asheboro, NC community. Click here to read our latest posts! Randolph Center for Dental Excellence, 134 Davis Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 - (336) 444-2772 - freemandds.com - 12/7/2024 - Key Phrases: dentist Asheboro NC -
Have you ever noticed a white patch on your gums, tongue, or inside of your cheek? It might be leukoplakia, a condition that can affect anyone, but is more common in people who smoke or use smokeless tobacco. While it's usually harmless, sometimes leukoplakia can turn into oral cancer. That's why it's important to be aware of this condition and know when to see a dentist.