Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs LeukoplakiaUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewMost leukoplakia patches are noncancerous, but some show early signs of cancer. They may be caused by smokeless tobacco use. SymptomsThickened, white patches form on the gums, the insides of the cheeks, the bottom of the mouth, and, sometimes, the tongue. The patches can't be scraped off. TreatmentsFor most people, stopping tobacco or alcohol use clears the condition. Persistent patches may be surgically removed. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use