Keratosis

What is the meaning of Keratosis?

Keratosis is widely used term in Dental Conditions.

Keratosis refers to the formation of keratinized tissue on the oral mucosa, which is not a normal characteristic of the oral cavity. It is a dental condition characterized by the thickening and hardening of the epithelial cells in the oral mucosa, resulting in the development of white, yellowish, or grayish-white patches or ridges.

These keratinized areas may be flat or raised and can present on the gums, tongue, palate, or other areas inside the mouth. Keratosis can be caused by various factors, including chronic irritation, smoking, tobacco use, denture trauma, or certain systemic conditions.

Although keratosis itself is typically benign and does not cause any symptoms, it can potentially evolve into more serious conditions such as oral leukoplakia or oral cancer if left untreated. Therefore, it is important for individuals with keratosis to have regular dental examinations to monitor the condition and ensure timely treatment if necessary.

Feel free to get in touch with experts, if you have any questions about Keratosis. You can also browse more terms meanings on our dictionary page.