5. You See: Small White Patches
Possible meaning: Irritation—or leukoplakia
Painless white patches can occur when cells grow excessively in response to irritation.
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Smoking (major risk factor)
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Chronic rubbing from a tooth or dental appliance
Leukoplakia can occasionally become precancerous, so if a patch doesn’t disappear within 1–2 weeks, see your dentist. A biopsy may be recommended.
