Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 12/20/2004

Question
Hi, you probably remember me.... 27 yr. old female, hypocondriac, huge fear of cancer (grandmother died of Ovarian cancer), get dry mouth really bad on occassions. Medications taking: multi-vitamin w/ numerous supplements, Allegra-D, Aciphex, Nasonex.  Drink once a week and ex-smoker.  I have a few questions.... My dry mouth isn't bad right now almost nonexistent.  For about a week now I get this small white patch on the right side of my tongue near the tip of my tongue.  I can easily wipe off or brush off the white stuff. It just seems to appear throughout the day and/or when I wake up in the morning.  I have no problems eating and drinking, no pain, no ulceration that I can see, no bright red patch.  What is this white stuff?  Does this sound like anything serious (oral cancer)?  Is this a totally benign condition and/or just dead skin?  SHould I go see my dentist (he probably thinks I am nuts everytime that I go see him - due for 6 month checkup in March 2005)?  What should one look for in detecting oral cancer (maybe knowing what to look for wil help me from asking you questions all the time)?   Thank you once again for answering my questions and for being patient with me.  Hope you have a Merry Christmas.  

Answer
Tara,
You really need to get into a dentist to have your mouth examined. I really want you to relax and not worry about your mouth. If you do not want to see your dentist, then let an oral surgeon look at you. They are the ones who do all of the biopsies and will give you the best answers to your questions. I cannot give you one "look" of cancer. It can be red, white, ulcer, etc. From what you describe, you should be fine. But I cannot diagnose anything without seeing it in person. Call either your dentist or an oral surgeon and get a quick exam. Good Luck...and happy holidays and a super 2005 to you.

Jeff Dalin, DDS