Is It Normal for a Healing Tongue Ulcer to Turn White?

Tongue ulcer

Hello doctor, a few days ago I had a sore on my tongue that healed after applying medication for about three to four days.
However, I noticed that the healed area has turned into a small white patch (it doesn't hurt and is not raised).
I would like to know if this is a normal phenomenon.
Will it gradually return to its original state? I do not smoke or drink, but I read online that white patches on the tongue can be a symptom of oral cancer, so I want to ask if it is normal for the area to turn white after healing.
Thank you.

Ke, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/02

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

It may be the repair tissue from the gradual healing process of the ulcer, which typically fully recovers in about a week.
If it has not completely healed after one week, it is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/09/02

More Info

It is quite common for a healing tongue ulcer to appear white as it heals. This white coloration is typically due to the formation of new tissue, specifically granulation tissue, which is part of the body's natural healing process. When an ulcer or wound heals, the body sends cells to the area to repair the damage, and this can result in a whitish appearance. This is generally a normal phenomenon and not a cause for concern, especially if the area is not painful, swollen, or showing signs of infection.

The healing process for oral ulcers can vary from person to person, but typically, you can expect the area to gradually return to its normal color and texture within a week or so. If the white area persists beyond this time frame or if you notice any changes such as increased pain, swelling, or the development of new lesions, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Your concern about the possibility of oral cancer due to the presence of white patches on the tongue is understandable, especially with the information available online. However, it is important to note that not all white patches in the mouth are indicative of cancer. Conditions such as leukoplakia, oral thrush, or simply the healing process of an ulcer can also cause white patches. Leukoplakia, for instance, is a condition characterized by white patches on the mucous membranes of the mouth, which can sometimes be precursors to cancer, but many cases are benign.
Given that you do not smoke or drink alcohol, which are significant risk factors for oral cancer, your risk may be lower. However, it is still essential to monitor any changes in your oral health. Regular dental check-ups can help catch any potential issues early on. If you have any persistent concerns about the white area on your tongue or if it changes in appearance, it is best to seek advice from a dentist or an oral health specialist. They may perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, conduct a biopsy to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, a white area on a healing tongue ulcer is generally normal and part of the healing process. It should gradually resolve, but if you have any doubts or if the condition does not improve, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind and appropriate care.

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