WHITE LEASONS IN ORAL CAVITY
The lesions that appear as white patches in the oral cavity are known as white lesions. Many systemic conditions appear initially in the oral cavity and prompt diagnosis and management can help in minimizing disease progression. White lesions are common findings in oral cavity. Lesions appear white in oral cavity because the abnormal Keratin can reflect the spectrum of light evenly and because of the constant bathing of hyper-keratotic tissue in saliva analogus to the appearance of palms and soles when immersed in water for long periods.
Common sites for white lesions in oral cavity- buccal mucosa, palate, tongue and gingiva.
FACTORS MOST BLAMED FOR WHITE LESIONS
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
- Poor oral hygiene
- Chronic local irritaion - malocclusion producing chronic cheek biting, Ill fitting dentures and sharp or broken teeth.
- Vitamin A and B deficiency
- Malnutrition
- Endocrine disturbances
- Peculiar dietary component- hot spicy food
- Habitual lip or cheek biting
- Emotional stress
- Infection
- Xerostomia
- Immunologically compromised
WHY TO VISIT DENTIST ?
White lesions in the oral cavity may be benign, pre malignant or malignant. There are no signs and symptoms which can reliably predict whether a lesion will undergo malignant change or not. So an early and thorough examination of the lesion is required to prevent any type of malignancy. Treatment of lesion is possible if :-
- You show the doctor on time.
- Take the medicine regularly.
- Follow instructions properly.
- Take care of the diet.
- Discontinue the habit.
WHAT YOU CAN DO ?
- Check your oral cavity regularly for any lesions.
- Visit dentist every three months of you use tobacco or alcohol.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene.
