Major Causes Of Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition that commonly affects senior adults, though it can affect individuals of any age, wherein white or gray patches develop in the mouth as a result of chronic irritation of the mucous membranes. This patch can develop on the tongue, the inside of the cheek, or even on the roof of the mouth. Leukoplakia usually takes a few weeks to a few months to develop, and it can take on a thick, raised texture. Over time, it may harden, but should not be painful. However, it may be sensitive to touch as well as spicy foods and heat. These are some of the common causes of leukoplakia that can shed some light on why leukoplakia occurs.

Broken or Ill-Fitting Dentures

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The reason why leukoplakia is so prominent among senior adults has partly to do with the fact many senior adults wear dentures. Dentures must be fitted properly and exactly to the patient's measurements because of the amount of time they spend inside the patient's mouth. If they are not, these broken or ill-fitting dentures can cause minute rubbing against the gums and inside of the mouth, which can eventually lead to a leukoplakia patch. Patients can better understand leukoplakia by seeing it as a similar response to a callous. The more irritation caused, the larger the response the body has. The patients can see for themselves if the denture is the true cause for their leukoplakia by observing if the patch lines up with the edge of an ill-fitted denture when the mouth is at rest. In these instances, the patient can remedy the situation by getting their dentures properly fitted.

Continue reading to reveal the next potential cause of leukoplakia.

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