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Leukoplakia (white patch in the mouth)

Also called: Leukoplakia, white patch in the mouth

A thick white patch inside the mouth that can't be wiped off, often from tobacco. Some can become cancer, so they're checked.

Main causeTobacco
CheckBiopsy

Overview

Patches that are red or mixed red and white have higher risk.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • White patch in the mouth
  • Mouth sore, or white or red patch, that won't heal

Less common

  • Red spots in the patch

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA sore that bleeds or grows.
See a doctor soonAny patch over 2 weeks.

Causes

Irritation, tobacco.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Tobacco
  • Alcohol

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Biopsy:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Stop tobacco
  • Limit alcohol
  • Keep follow-up visits

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

  • No tobacco

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a dentist or an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Adults over 50: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most patches aren't cancer.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Leukoplakia (white patch in the mouth)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.