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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could A Small White Area On My Tongue Indicate That It Is Benign?

Hello, I am an 82-year-old male. I have had two teeth in the back of my mouth missing for the last 60 years. The tongue has filled into that opening. Part of my tongue has been hitting that area for some time, and now I notice a small white area where it hits the tooth. I saw my dentist and was told it was nothing. I had a second opinion with an oral surgeon and he felt it was nothing, but to relive my fear he said a biopsy would confirm to me it is nothing. They both told me what is not, but they did not tell me what it is? Oh, the biopsy would cost me $750.00 whaich is a lot on social security.
posted on Tue, 1 Aug 2023
Twitter Mon, 9 Sep 2024 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 3 Oct 2024 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

You have a small white area on your tongue can be due to continuous friction or pressure from the tooth. This is often harmless but can be uncomfortable. The other factors that can cause similar symptoms are leucoplakia or lichen planus. Both are commonly benign but can be pre-cancerous. Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid irritating the area further. If the white patch gets worse, get treated. Get biopsy done to stay on the safer side.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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What Could A Small White Area On My Tongue Indicate That It Is Benign?

Hello, You have a small white area on your tongue can be due to continuous friction or pressure from the tooth. This is often harmless but can be uncomfortable. The other factors that can cause similar symptoms are leucoplakia or lichen planus. Both are commonly benign but can be pre-cancerous. Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid irritating the area further. If the white patch gets worse, get treated. Get biopsy done to stay on the safer side. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician