White spots in your mouth can be concerning and cause for alarm, but they may not always be a sign of a serious health condition. In this article, we’ll explore what could be causing these spots and when you need to see a dentist or doctor.

What Are White Spots?

White spots can appear anywhere in the mouth including the teeth, tongue, inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth. They may be small or large and can appear as one or multiple spots.

White spots can be a variety of colors including bright white, yellow, or grayish-white.

Possible Causes of White Spots in the Mouth

Canker Sores

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are common and typically harmless. These small white or yellowish spots are usually surrounded by a red ring and can cause discomfort or pain while eating or speaking.

They typically go away on their own within a week or two.

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection that can cause white spots on the tongue or inner cheeks. It is often caused by a weakened immune system or a change in oral pH levels.

Candidiasis can be treated with antifungal medication prescribed by a dentist or doctor.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a type of candidiasis that affects the mouth and throat. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast and can cause white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, and tonsils.

It is more common in infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition that causes thick, white patches to form on the gums, tongue, or cheeks. It is often caused by irritation from tobacco use, poor dental hygiene, or ill-fitting dentures.

While it is usually harmless, it can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer and should be evaluated by a dentist.

Oral Lichen Planus

Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the mouth. It can cause painful white spots on the gums, cheeks, tongue, and lips. The cause is unknown, but it can sometimes be triggered by a viral infection or allergen.

Treatment may include corticosteroid medications.

Oral Cancer

White spots in the mouth can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer. Oral cancer can cause white or red patches, sores that do not heal, and lumps or growths in the mouth.

It is important to have any suspicious spots evaluated by a dentist or doctor to rule out the possibility of cancer.

When to See a Dentist or Doctor

If you notice white spots in your mouth that do not go away on their own within a few weeks, or if they are accompanied by pain or other symptoms, it is important to see a dentist or doctor.

They can perform an oral exam, take a biopsy if necessary, and recommend treatment if needed.

Preventing White Spots in the Mouth

While not all cases of white spots in the mouth can be prevented, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash
Avoid tobacco use
Limit alcohol consumption
Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Reduce stress levels

Conclusion

White spots in the mouth can be caused by a variety of factors ranging from harmless conditions like canker sores to more serious issues like oral cancer.

If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth or have any concerns, it is important to see a dentist or doctor for an evaluation.