If you're diagnosed with leukoplakia it should be treated, particularly if it's thought there's a risk it might develop into mouth cancer.
Treatment should be considered if your biopsy results indicate particularly abnormal cells.
Your mouth should be regularly checked by a dentist or specialist to make sure the leukoplakia patch isn't changing or increasing in size and any new patches are identified early.
You should also visit your dentist for regular dental check-ups if your teeth or dentures are irritating your cheeks, tongue or gums.
Stopping smoking
If you smoke or use other tobacco products, the most effective form of treatment for leukoplakia is to stop. Not using tobacco can make a leukoplakia patch gradually disappear and may also significantly reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer.
If you smoke, it's strongly recommended you stop as soon as possible.
Surgical treatment
Surgically removing the leukoplakia patch may reduce the risk of mouth cancer developing by removing any abnormal cells.
The leukoplakia patch can be removed using a number of different techniques, including using a scalpel, laser or freezing (cryotherapy).
The procedure is usually carried out using a local anaesthetic, although a general anaesthetic may be required if the area is large.
After the leukoplakia patch has been removed, the underlying area of tissue should heal quickly. You'll usually need to have a follow-up appointment to check the affected area.
Next Steps
Consult an oral surgeon
Health Tips
Confirm by biopsy