White spot on my gum is cancerous? during my last dental appointment, my dentist was concerned that a light whitish spot on my gum might be cancerous or precancerous. i don't smoke or chew tobacco, and don't drink often. she wants me to come back in ten d

During : During routine dental examinations and oral cancer screening is usually performed. Typically we are looking for lumps, bumps, ulcers, and colored lesions (white, red, blue). Any change from normal is typically reevaluated in 7 to 10 days because that is the normal healing time for oral lesions. If the lesion persists then a biopsy is recommended so that the tissue can be closely examined to determine its nature. White lesions in the mouth can range from a reaction to trauma to oral cancer, but without a tissue diagnosis your dentist cannot tell what the change. Most white lesions in a patient a little risk for cancer are benign and do not require treatment, but they all have to be evaluated.

You're : You're being given good advise. I applaud your dentist for checking your mouth for these things and informing you. Don't panic-the odds are way in your favor that it's nothing. The worst thing is to ignore these things. Follow up as instructed and you'll have a good outcome.

There : There is no explanation for why certain people develop certain aliments. Your dentist is being cautious to make sure that what is there is benign. It is highly unlikely that you have gingival cancer as it is extremely rare. Relax, and follow your dentist's recommendation. It is good that this was observed and that you are taking care of it.