Leukoplakia (loo-koh-PLAY-key-uh) causes thick, white patches that form on the gums. The patches also may form on the insides of the cheeks and the bottom of the mouth. Sometimes the patches form on the tongue.

Understanding the Context

These patches cannot be scraped off. Doctors do not know the exact cause of leukoplakia. Leukoplakia is a condition that causes painless white or gray patches to develop inside your mouth. People with leukoplakia may have an increased risk of oral cancer.

Key Insights

What is leukoplakia, and is it always a symptom of oral cancer? Oral oncologist Mark Chambers, D.M.D., weighs in on these and other questions. Leukoplakia as an oral cancer symptom: 7 things to know | UT ... There are two main clinical variants of oral leukoplakia, namely homogeneous leukoplakia and non-homogeneous (heterogenous) leukoplakia, which are described below. White spots in your mouth can be caused by simple issues like dehydration or serious issues like leukoplakia.

Final Thoughts

If the white spots in your mouth don't go away, see a dentist or healthcare provider. The pathogenesis of oral leukoplakia is largely unknown. It is considered an intermediate stage in oral carcinogenesis, driven by multiple somatic genetic mutations affecting keratinocyte growth, survival, and cycle control. Leukoplakia causes white patches to form on the tongue or inside of the cheeks. Learn about its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips here.