Persistent White Mark on Gum After Injury: Is It Normal?

Q: Persistent White Mark on Gum After Injury: Is It Normal?

Hello Mr. Guo： 1. The scar tissue that may be repaired will gradually return to normal in about 3 to 6 months. 2. It is recommended that if you suspect vitiligo, you should consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Denti

After the gums were cut by food at the lower inner area, there has been a persistent white mark?

Hello, 11 days ago, I injured the lower part of my gum on the inside while eating a fried dough stick (I'm sorry, I don't know what that area is called).
The injury is marked in yellow in the photos below.
Here are the photos: (1) https://imgur.com/a/wQICFPf (2) https://imgur.com/a/t2SYsV7 (3) https://imgur.com/a/WIMzJYZ (I apologize for the unclear photos; I did my best to take them).
At that moment, I felt pain as if I had been cut.
After eating, I brushed my teeth and rinsed my mouth, and noticed blood in the water I spat out.
Looking in the mirror, I discovered a red wound in the area marked in yellow, and when I touched it, I felt that the tissue was torn, causing pain.
I was afraid to pull the tissue off at that time.
About 7 days later, I checked again, and the area of the wound felt flatter, but there has been a persistent white (with a slight pinkish hue) mark that hasn't faded, as shown in the yellow-marked area of the photo.
When I shone a flashlight on it with my phone, it appeared to be a different color from the surrounding area, more white with a pinkish tint, which is closer to the color of the gum next to the upper teeth.
When I touch that area with my tongue, it feels rough (though it looks smooth), and it no longer hurts when I touch it with my hand.
What concerns me is that, even after 11 days, this mark is still present.

I would like to ask:
1.
Is it normal for this white mark to persist for 11 days? If it is normal, how long might it take to fade? Will it return to its original color, or is there a possibility it will remain as it is?
2.
Does this count as oral leukoplakia? If not, is there a chance it could develop into oral leukoplakia or become malignant in the future? Thank you.

Guo Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/18

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello Mr.
Guo: 1.
The scar tissue that may be repaired will gradually return to normal in about 3 to 6 months.
2.
It is recommended that if you suspect vitiligo, you should consult a dentist for further examination.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2024/01/18

More Info

It sounds like you have experienced a minor injury to your gum, which has resulted in a persistent white mark. Based on your description, it seems that the injury was caused by a sharp object (in this case, a fried dough stick), and you have been monitoring the healing process for about 11 days. Here’s a detailed response to your questions:
1. Is it normal for the white mark to persist for 11 days?
Yes, it is relatively normal for a white or pinkish mark to remain on the gum after an injury, especially if the injury involved a cut or abrasion. The healing process in the oral cavity can vary significantly from person to person, and several factors can influence the duration of visible signs of healing, including the depth of the injury, your overall health, and oral hygiene practices. The white appearance you are observing is likely due to the formation of a fibrin clot or granulation tissue, which is part of the natural healing process. This tissue can appear white or pale pink as it forms over the injured area.

In general, soft tissue injuries in the mouth can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal completely. The white mark may gradually fade as the tissue continues to heal, and it is likely to return to a color that matches the surrounding gum tissue. However, if the mark persists beyond a few weeks or if you notice any changes in the texture or color of the area, it would be advisable to consult a dentist or oral health professional.

2. Is this a form of oral leukoplakia?
Based on your description, it does not sound like oral leukoplakia. Oral leukoplakia is characterized by white patches that cannot be scraped off and may be associated with irritation or other underlying conditions. The white mark you are observing is likely a result of the healing process following your injury, rather than a pathological condition. However, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the white mark becomes more pronounced, persists for an extended period, or if you experience any additional symptoms such as pain, swelling, or difficulty eating, it would be wise to seek a professional evaluation.

In summary, while the persistent white mark on your gum after the injury is likely a normal part of the healing process, it is crucial to keep an eye on it. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding irritants (like spicy or acidic foods), and ensuring that you do not further injure the area will help promote healing. If you have any concerns or if the condition does not improve, do not hesitate to consult with a dentist for a thorough examination and peace of mind.

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