What are Fordyce spots?

Fordyce spots are small, painless, pale or white spots that appear on the inner lining of the cheeks, lips, and sometimes on the genitals. They are sebaceous glands that are not associated with hair follicles and can become visible when they are prominent and surface, often due to normal variations in skin anatomy. These spots are not harmful, do not require treatment, and are considered a normal anatomical variation.

In this context, the choice referring to Fordyce spots as little white dots accurately captures their appearance and nature. The other options do not describe Fordyce spots correctly: enlarged gums refer to gingival hyperplasia, malocclusions are related to dental alignment issues, and cancerous lesions indicate abnormal tissue growth typically linked to malignancies, which are distinct conditions entirely. Understanding these differences can help in identifying Fordyce spots properly within clinical practice and distinguishing them from other oral or skin conditions.