Q. Are the white lines on my inner cheek a precancerous lesion?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. I have seen the image (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) you have enclosed. I am a maxillofacial surgeon too. I do not think a biopsy would be required based on what pictures you have uploaded. The lines seem quite faint on the buccal mucosa. Indeed, dentists usually warn of the state of precancer lesions. But to even develop into cancer, it takes months to years again. That is again dependent on the clinical extent of the lesion. Are you feeling any pain or oral discomfort because of these lines? I suggest you the following as precautionary steps,

1) Lukewarm saltwater rinsing multiple times a day for a week whenever your infection gets prominent.

2) Use a Chlorhexidine mouthwash daily at night time.

3) Regular oral prophylaxis every six months to one year.

If it is not causing any oral discomfort to you, then do not worry; these lesions will be self-limiting. I suggest you avoid hot, hard, and spicy foods and follow the hygiene instructions. A biopsy is required when you feel a painless lump or a, hardened tissue or continuously aggravating lesion. Even mildly precancerous, it will not transform overnight into a cancer lesion. Ensure that these lines vanish by following proper oral hygiene for a month. Usually, when you limit the cause of friction or grinding or sharp tooth or any other cause causing these lines, the lesions will self heal. If they do not heal even past a month, I suggest you go for an in-clinic examination by the maxillofacial surgeon, who will examine the texture of the lesion and then suggest you get the biopsy done. In my opinion, you may not need it right now.

I hope you understand.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

There are possibilities of leukoedema. I need to examine these lesions physically to find out the diagnosis. I suggest applying Bonjela gel (Choline salicylate, Cetalkonium chloride) to reduce irritation. But Orrepaste (Triamcinolone Acetonide) is not required. In your case, I am not sure if it is precancerous. It looks fine to me. Just follow the oral hygiene instruction, and I suggest you take Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid supplements at least thrice a week. Antioxidants will boost immunity and gingival health both by supplements and dietary intake of leafy veggies, eggs, berries, milk products, etc. So do not worry at all. Just focus on boosting immunity, good oral hygiene, and regular mouth washing. If you still suspect it past a month that these lines on stretching are not disappearing and are a concern to you, I suggest you get it checked physically by a maxillofacial surgeon.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I hope you get well soon.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

No worries. I suggest you follow the supplements and hygiene instructions. Strictly avoid smoking and alcoholism. If it persists past a month, please reconsult me before you think of a biopsy.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Achanta Krishna Swaroop

Experience: 7 + Yrs

Dentistry

---

Related Questions:
How can I manage high cholesterol?

.. performing an ambulatory 24-48 hours ECG (electrocardiogram) monitoring to investigate for any cardiac arrhythmia. I would also recommend performing complete blood count and blood electrolytes for any possible imbalance, which could trigger ectopi...   Read full

Oral Thrush - Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis, treatment, and Prevention

.. condition where a yeast infection (fungal infection) affects the oral cavity. The fungus causing this condition is called Candida albicans .. ...   Read full

There is a change in the shape of my gums due to bleeding. When will it return to normal?

.. common cause of bleeding gums is plaque and calculus deposition on teeth and gums (due to improper maintenance of oral hygiene). Only brushing and mouthwashing at home may not work since it is a little advanced stage and demands professional help ...   Read full