As you can see from my signature, my husband also had leukoplakia. The MedLine medical encyclopedia (from the National Institutes of Health) defines it as a white patch, most frequently on cheeks or tongue, that develops in response to irritation; the use of chewing tobacco, as in your case, is a common cause. Though leukoplakias do not always turn malignant, they certainly can.

There are a number of former chewing-tobacco users here. Using the search link at the top of each page, look for postings by outdoortexan, who also has a website about his experiences.

You have come to the right place for information. The folks on these boards are the best.

All the best,
Leslie