Complications

Leukoplakia usually doesn't cause permanent damage to tissues in your mouth. However, leukoplakia increases your risk of oral cancer. Oral cancers often form near leukoplakia patches, and the patches themselves may show cancerous changes. Even after leukoplakia patches are removed, the risk of oral cancer remains.

Hairy leukoplakia

Hairy leukoplakia isn't likely to lead to cancer. But it may indicate HIV/AIDS.