Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is characterised by thick, white spots that appear on the tongue, gums, cheeks, or other areas of the mouth. While most occurrences are benign, some may signal precancerous alterations, necessitating early assessment.
Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause of leukoplakia is prolonged inflammation of the oral tissues. Tobacco use (smoking or chewing), heavy alcohol intake, improperly fitting dentures, and prolonged oral exposure to rough surfaces are all common risk factors. Some cases link leukoplakia to the human papillomavirus (HPV) or reduced immune function.
Symptoms of Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia manifests as intractable white or greyish patches. The patches can have a rough, hardened, or thicker texture. While normally harmless, some people may feel discomfort, irritation, or a burning sensation. A more worrying type is erythroleukoplakia, which is characterised by red patches and has a higher risk of cancer.
Treatment and prevention.
Treatment entails removing irritants, such as stopping smoking and increasing dental hygiene. In persistent or questionable situations, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out malignant alterations. Regular dental check-ups help to monitor leukoplakia and discover potential consequences early. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol, as well as keeping excellent dental health, are all forms of prevention.