Dr Dental Dental Insurance – Leukoplakia
What is Leukoplakia?
Leukoplakia is a thickened, white patch that forms on your gums, the insides of your cheeks, the bottom of your mouth, and, sometimes, your tongue. Doctors do not know what causes Leukoplakia but consider chronic irritation from tobacco (smoked, dipped, or chewed) the main culprit in its development.
Leukoplakia reacts to irritants like rough teeth, poorly fitting dentures, smoking, and smokeless tobacco. Leukoplakia can also be a precancerous condition. Persistent patches or other changes in your mouth need a dentist’s evaluation.
Hairy Leukoplakia, sometimes called oral hairy Leukoplakia, primarily affects people with immune systems weakened by disease, especially HIV/AIDS. See a dentist if you think you may have Leukoplakia for an evaluation and treatment.
Leukoplakia treatment is most successful when a lesion is found and treated early when it’s small. Regular checkups are essential, as is routinely inspecting your mouth for areas that don’t look normal. For most people, removing the source of irritation, such as stopping tobacco or alcohol, helps to clear the condition.