Is Leukoplakia a Sign of Oral Cancer?

Is Leukoplakia a Sign of Oral Cancer?

Jun 01, 2019

If you have unusual spots in your mouth, you may automatically believe it to be a sign of oral cancer. Leukoplakia is a disease caused by the surplus cell growth, which results in the appearance of patches or lesions in the oral cavity, usually on the gums and cheeks. Although their appearance can differ from person to person, the sores are white or gray with thick elevated edges and hard surface. The lesions are common among smokers and people who use smokeless tobacco, says dentist in Langley.

What Should You Know About Leukoplakia?

The dentist in Katy, TX says that, though the patches are regarded as benign and not dangerous, few instances of Leukoplakia may indicate initial signs of oral cancer forming next to the growths. If you suddenly discover these growths in your mouth, you must contact your Langley dentist for evaluation and treatment.

Consult Your Dentist or Physician about Leukoplakia

If you think the signs are related to Leukoplakia, pay your dentist in Langley or a physician a visit as early as possible. They may refer you to an oral surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Before you go for the consultation, note down any query and concern that you may have, about the treatment procedure, treatment duration, and medications. You can also ask them if you may be needing surgery.

Test and Diagnosis

For ruling out any early symptoms of oral cancer, the dentist will perform the following tests:

  • Take a tissue sample for biopsy
  • Lab analysis of the tissue
  • Excisional biopsy

Treating Leukoplakia

The dentist in V3A 4G7 recommends two forms of treatments- systemic and topical. For systemic medication, the dentist will prescribe an antiviral drug. The virus responsible for Leukoplakia can’t be eradicated from the body; it spreads and the development can’t be stopped. Regular treatment will remove Leukoplakia but they may return if the treatment is not consistent.

You will be given a Podophyllum resin solution or retinoic acid for topical medication. They are applied topically on the patches, but they must be used regularly for effective results.