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What Causes Whitish Discoloration And Tightness Of Lingual Frenulum?

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Posted on Tue, 8 Dec 2015
Question: I have a tight frenulum right where it attaches to my tongue. It also turned white. It is painful and tight. I saw my doctor and Im now using "magic mouthwash" compound which helps with the pain. The frenulum white spot sluffed off but has turned white again. There are no other white spots in my mouth at all so we don't think this is oral thrush... I also had some burning sensation on the inside of my lips but it is almost gone. Any idea what this could be?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Could be due to hyperkeratosis

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.
I have gone carefully through your query as well as the attached image. Although a careful and closer look could have yeilded important clues, that is clearly beyond scope. The whitish discoloration of the frenulum of tongue could be due to hyperkeratosis or increased deposition of keratin.
All that needs to be done is to use the 'magic mouthwash'.
Alongside, you may take some vitamin supplements once or twice daily for a week or so and see if that makes a difference.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (7 minutes later)
Thank you. I did forget one very important fact...I started using a nicotine vaporizing device (called Vuze by RJ Reynolds). I had been smoking 10 cigarettes aday up until 4 weeks ago. My follow up question is: Do you have any reccomendations or observations on the use of these "vaporizers" and oral health?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (10 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
It is likely to have a role to play.

Detailed Answer:
The additional information provides a valuable correlation. Indeed there can be a role of the nicotine vaporizer. I would insist you to cut down on its use (and also any other form of nicotine). In case you use it, maintenance of proper oral hygeine is very important. Thorough cleaning of the oral cavity is essential. Use of mouthwashes might be suggested.
Regards
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
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Answered by
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Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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What Causes Whitish Discoloration And Tightness Of Lingual Frenulum?

Brief Answer: Could be due to hyperkeratosis Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. I have gone carefully through your query as well as the attached image. Although a careful and closer look could have yeilded important clues, that is clearly beyond scope. The whitish discoloration of the frenulum of tongue could be due to hyperkeratosis or increased deposition of keratin. All that needs to be done is to use the 'magic mouthwash'. Alongside, you may take some vitamin supplements once or twice daily for a week or so and see if that makes a difference. Regards