If you're someone who uses tobacco in any form, or who used to use it in the past, your dentist has probably warned you about leukoplakia. This condition leads to thick patches forming inside your mouth, which are often benign but can sometimes be cancerous. This brief guide explores the details of this condition and what you can do about it.

What Are Common Symptoms?

Leukoplakia can appear anywhere on your body where you have certain types of tissue, but it most commonly shows up in the mouth and on the tongue. It's characterized by thick patches of discoloration and hard, raised surfaces. Most commonly, these patches are a white or gray color, and in rare cases they may be red. Red patches of leukoplakia are more likely to indicate cancer, so you should consult with your dentist and doctor immediately upon noticing them. 

What Causes It?

Unfortunately, there is no medical consensus on what precisely causes leukoplakia. Doctors know that tobacco use greatly increases a person's risk of developing the condition, but it can also arise from other factors. Frequent and long-term alcohol use, cheek injuries, and improperly fitted dentures can all lead to leukoplakia. 

What Are the Treatment Options?

For the majority of cases, leukoplakia doesn't require any treatment. The patches will likely go away on their own within a few weeks, and they don't usually have any negative or disruptive symptoms. If you want to avoid getting it again in the future, it's crucial to learn what triggers it for you and avoid those things. If you are concerned about your leukoplakia, you can get it biopsied, which will reveal whether it is cancerous. In the case of a cancerous patch, you should have it removed as soon as possible. Removal may be done with laser treatment, freezing, or a simple scalpel.

If you are experiencing leukoplakia and want a professional opinion, reach out to Bradley M. Stewart, DMD in Olive Branch, MS. For over 15 years, this family dentist has offered the full suite of dental care services to help keep your teeth healthy for longer. Learn more about their team online, and call (662) 893-5800 to schedule an appointment.