The scar in your mouth is likely white because it's a normal part of the healing process.
Here's a breakdown:
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Standard Response to Injury: When you experience a cut, scrape, or other trauma inside your mouth, your body initiates a healing response. This response often manifests as a white appearance on the wound as it heals.
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Granulation Tissue and Fibrin: Early in the healing process, the body forms granulation tissue, which is a pinkish, bumpy tissue. Over this, a white or yellowish film can form, often composed of fibrin (a protein involved in blood clotting) and inflammatory cells. This fibrin clot helps protect the wound and facilitate healing.
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Keratinization: In some cases, the white appearance can be attributed to keratinization. Keratin is a protein that strengthens and protects epithelial cells. As the wound heals, the new skin cells may produce more keratin, giving the area a whitish appearance.
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Leukoplakia (Less Common): While less likely, a white patch in your mouth could potentially be leukoplakia. Leukoplakia is a thickened, white patch that forms on the inside of the cheeks, gums, or tongue. It can be caused by irritation, such as from rough teeth, dentures, or tobacco use. If the white patch doesn't heal within a couple of weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a dentist or doctor to rule out leukoplakia or other conditions.
How Long Will It Last?
Generally, the white appearance from a normal mouth wound should clear up within a few days to a week. If it persists longer than two weeks, or if you experience pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
