Oral Ulcers: Healing Marks and Cancer Concerns

Q: Oral Ulcers: Healing Marks and Cancer Concerns

Hello： It sounds like a normal phenomenon and doesn't seem to be vitiligo. <br>You can observe it for a while; it should improve in about a week. <br>If it doesn't get better, you can visit the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.

Oral ulcer

Hello, Dr.
Chuang.
I would like to ask if it is normal for a small white mark (0.2 to 0.3 mm) to remain after the healing of an oral ulcer? Could this be a sign of leukoplakia, which is a precancerous condition? How long does it usually take for the white mark to resolve?

Mr. Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/01/07

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Hello: It sounds like a normal phenomenon and doesn't seem to be vitiligo.
You can observe it for a while; it should improve in about a week.
If it doesn't get better, you can visit the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2014/01/07

More Info

Oral ulcers can be a source of significant discomfort and concern, especially when they leave behind white marks after healing. It's understandable to be worried about the possibility of these marks indicating a precancerous condition, such as leukoplakia, which is characterized by white patches in the oral cavity that cannot be easily wiped away. However, it is essential to approach this situation with a clear understanding of what these symptoms may signify.

Firstly, the presence of a small white mark (0.2-0.3 mm) after an oral ulcer has healed is not uncommon. When an ulcer heals, it can leave behind a scar or a residual area of keratinization, which may appear white. This is typically a normal part of the healing process and does not necessarily indicate a malignant transformation. The oral mucosa is quite resilient, and minor injuries or irritations often heal with some degree of residual change.

Leukoplakia, on the other hand, is a condition that warrants closer examination. It can be caused by various factors, including chronic irritation (such as from rough teeth or ill-fitting dentures), tobacco use, or even certain infections. While leukoplakia can be a precursor to oral cancer, not all white patches are indicative of cancer. The risk of malignant transformation depends on the specific characteristics of the leukoplakic lesion, including its size, texture, and whether it is associated with any symptoms such as pain or difficulty swallowing.

As for how long the white mark may last, it varies from person to person. Generally, if the mark is a result of healing from an ulcer, it may take several weeks to a few months to fade completely. If the white mark persists beyond this time frame or if you notice any changes in its appearance, such as enlargement or the development of additional symptoms (like pain or bleeding), it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional.

In your case, if you are concerned about the possibility of oral cancer or precancerous lesions, it is crucial to consult with a specialist, such as an oral pathologist or an oral surgeon. They may recommend a biopsy to assess the nature of the white mark and rule out any serious conditions. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the tissue for microscopic examination, which can provide definitive information about whether there are any cancerous or precancerous changes.

In summary, while a small white mark left after an oral ulcer may be a normal part of the healing process, it is essential to monitor any changes and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential oral health issues, including cancer. Regular dental check-ups and being attentive to changes in your oral cavity can help ensure that any problems are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Oral Lesions: Causes, Concerns, and Cancer Risks

About a week or two ago, I experienced pain in the sublingual area of my mouth. Upon inspection, I noticed some white spots and suspected they were ulcers, so I purchased an ointment to apply, and it gradually improved. However, in the last couple of days, the pain has returned (...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If an ulcer does not improve after 1-2 weeks, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Is Your Gum Ulcer a Sign of Oral Cancer? Understanding Dental Health Concerns

I apologize for the concern you're experiencing. Recently, I developed a hole in my lower gum. I applied medication, and it doesn't hurt anymore and seems to be healing. However, after two weeks, there is still a noticeable mark where the hole was, and it appears a bit ...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Pa: Hello! It sounds like vascular epithelial hyperplasia! If you are concerned, it would be more reassuring to have an examination at the hospital! Oral cancer mostly occurs due to smoking, drinking alcohol, and chewing betel nut! Wishing you all the best! Sincerely, Dr...

Understanding Oral Mucosal Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes, and Concerns

Hello doctor, I have been eating spicier foods and fried items for the past few days. Today, I suddenly noticed a raised lesion on the mucosa of my right oral cavity that looks white like an ulcer, but there are some red streaks of blood around it. There is no discharge or bleedi...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended to visit a larger hospital as soon as possible for a re-evaluation by an oral surgeon. If it is a precancerous lesion, early intervention can be initiated. If it is a common mucosal ulcer, medication can also be prescribed for treatment. For the left corn...

Understanding Oral Mucosal Scarring: Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, I have had frequent experiences with mouth sores in the past. Recently, I had an oral ulcer that took over a month to heal, but it left a grayish-white, somewhat wrinkled mark on the area of the lingual arch. Could this be scar tissue? If it is scar tissue, is it th...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The above situation suggests that scar tissue and oral mucosal fibrosis are not the same, as the latter can lead to restricted mouth opening and is considered a precancerous condition of the oral cavity. If there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a dentist for further ...