A clinical diagnosis of oral leukoplakia; A guide for dentists

BACKGROUND In view of the many white or predominantly white lesions of the oral mucosa it is a challenge for dentists to clinically identify a leukoplakia, being a potentially (pre)malignant lesion. MATERIAL AND METHODS Based on the available literature and experience of the authors the parameters of a clinical diagnosis of oral leukoplakia have been studied. RESULTS A guide has been presented that should help dentists to establish a clinical diagnosis of leukoplakia as accurate as possible. CONCLUSIONS Probably in most parts of the world dentists will need the help of a specialist for confirmation or exclusion of the clinical diagnosis of oral leukoplakia and for further management of the patient, including patient information.