White matter that covers the surface of the tongue is a condition called leukoplakia. Leukoplakia appears on the mucus membranes in the mouth in response to persistent irritation in specific areas. In addition to the tongue, leukoplakia may also appear on the gums, insides of the cheeks and bottom of the mouth, according to MayoClinic.com.
Causes
Leukoplakia is caused by constant irritation on the tongue and inside of the cheeks. One of the most common irritations that cause leukoplakia is cigarette smoke or the use of smokeless tobacco. Another common irritant is alcohol. Rough teeth or irregular areas on dentures and tooth fillings may also cause leukoplakia. Those who habitually chew on the inside of the cheeks or the side of the tongue may also develop leukoplakia in these areas.
Symptoms
White patches on the tongue and cheeks are the most common symptom of leukoplakia. The patches are usually flat and nonsymmetrical and cannot be rubbed or scraped away. The white patches will also be abnormally thick and hard. In addition to areas of white patches, leukoplakia may cause sores to develop. According to Medline Plus, these sores usually appear on just the tongue, but may affect the inside of the cheek as well.
Treatment
Most cases of leukoplakia do not require any treatment. The white patches will usually go away with removal of the irritant. If smoke is causing the condition, cessation of smoking should clear the condition. If the condition is caused by ill-fitting dental work or rough teeth, it is recommended to get these areas fixed. If sores accompany the patches, removal may be necessary. Removal may be done with a scalpel, laser or cryoprobe, which usually extremely cold temperatures to freeze off the affected areas. MayoClinic.com notes that beta carotene has been shown to reduce or clear the white patches associated with leukoplakia.
Complications
Leukoplakia carries a serious risk of developing into oral cancer. The patches of leukoplakia often show precancerous changes when studied under a microscopic. Those who have developed sores in addition to white patches are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer. MayoClinic.com notes that even if the areas of leukoplakia are removed, the risk for developing oral cancer is still higher than average.
Prevention
In order to prevent the development of leukoplakia, MayoClinic.com suggests a number of steps that can be taken. One of the most important steps is to stop the use of any tobacco products. Another step is to reduce or avoid alcohol consumption. Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables may also help prevent leukoplakia because these foods are rich in beta carotene and other important nutrients.
