There are many possible causes for white tongue, and in some cases, it comes with an unpleasant odor and mouth dryness. To get rid of it, sometimes you just need to brush your teeth. But what should you do if that doesn’t help?
❗ This article is for informative purposes only and can’t replace the advice of a specialist.
What white tongue is
The white film may cover the entire tongue, part of it, or appear as spots. At the same time, an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth may appear. It looks as if there are small white hairs on the tongue’s surface. In fact, they are buds covered with organic particles, bacteria, and dead cells.
White plaque on the tongue (which can also be yellow) may appear for different reasons, like due to irritation or because of an infection. It usually disappears after several days. If the situation doesn’t change for several weeks, and it’s painful to eat and talk, it’s best to see a doctor.
It’s important to note that the plaque may not only be white. While a pink tongue is normal, a brown tongue means the person drinks too much coffee or tea. A yellow tongue means there’s something wrong with the liver, and a red tongue is a sign that the person lacks vitamin B.
Why the tongue becomes white
Usually, the tongue becomes white due to bacteria, leftover bits of food, or dead cells that get stuck in between the buds. Because of this, the buds may increase in size or become inflamed. This is how white spots on the tongue’s surface appear.
Sometimes, the plaque appears due to an illness. For example, the geographic tongue is also a condition where white spots appear on the tongue. It’s quite rare, and the causes are unknown, but the condition itself is often connected to eating foods that irritate the tongue. It may also be a reaction to stress, an illness, or hormonal changes.
Why white plaque appears on the tongue
There are some things that make the appearance of white plaque on the tongue more probable:
- Age
- Taking antibiotics (white-yellow plaque appearing when there’s a fungal infection in the mouth)
- A diet that’s lacking enough fruits, vegetables, vitamin B12, and iron
- A weak immune system
- Bad mouth hygiene
- Dental prosthetics or other objects that can damage the tongue
- Dehydration and mouth dryness
What piercings have to do with white tongue
Right after piercing the tongue, there might be some white film present. This happens because the number of bacteria on the tongue increases, and it’s normal. Antibacterial mouthwash will help you get rid of it. Plus, there might be a ring around the piercings, which is normal too, and it means the tissue is healing.
If the plaque appears due to an injury (including piercings), the healing should take around 1.5 weeks. You should avoid irritants, such as hot, spicy, or sour foods and drinks.
How to get rid of white tongue at home
- Practice good mouth hygiene.
- Drink enough water.
- Brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush.
- Use a mild fluoride toothpaste — one that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Use fluoride mouthwash.
- Brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove the white coating.
- Drink cold drinks through a straw.
- Avoid food and drinks that are spicy, salty, acidic, or very hot in temperature.
Who to talk to if you’re worried about your white tongue
- Your dentist can help you remove the white film from the tongue and prescribe medications if needed.
- Your GP can diagnose the tongue, prescribe you certain medications and determine if the white tongue is an indicator of a more serious issue.
What do you do about white tongue?
Preview photo credit Genusfotografen (genusfotografen.se) & Wikimedia Sverige (wikimedia.se) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, Martanopue / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Husband Fails to Acknowledge Wife on Their 50th Anniversary, Comes Home to Find His Belongings Outside
Betty Carmichael was furious when her husband, Donald, forgot their 50th wedding anniversary. This time, she wouldn’t let it slide. After fifty years of marriage, she felt she deserved more than the silence that greeted her special day.
As she waited for him to come home, she grew angrier. Donald hadn’t even bothered to show up for the dinner she prepared. When he finally arrived, Betty stood on the porch, ready to confront him. She couldn’t contain her anger and began tossing his belongings into the yard, thinking about how unappreciated she felt.
When Donald saw the mess, he was shocked and confused. Betty declared that she wanted a divorce, feeling that Donald took her for granted. She was tired of reminding him of important dates, especially after all the years they had shared. Donald tried to defend himself, claiming that he loved her
In a surprising turn of events, he revealed that he had been waiting for their granddaughter, Hannah, to surprise Betty. He had arranged her visit as a special gift, knowing how much Betty missed her.
Overjoyed, Betty rushed to embrace Hannah, realizing her mistake in assuming the worst. Donald reassured her that he hadn’t strayed from their love over the years. They reconciled and tidied up the yard together.
That night, Donald surprised Betty again by announcing a party for their anniversary, complete with a vow renewal ceremony. He even got down on one knee and asked her to marry him again, presenting her with a ring.
The next day, they celebrated their milestone surrounded by family and friends. Betty felt grateful for Donald and vowed never to doubt his love again. She learned that trust is essential in a relationship and that everyday moments matter just as much as special occasions.
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