Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: five minutes.
👅 Does your tongue look a bit white lately?
A white coated tongue is more common than you might think and is usually harmless. In fact, there are several reasons why your tongue could take on that pale appearance, and most of them are easy to treat. From poor oral hygiene to conditions like a dry mouth, your tongue can reveal a lot about your overall health and may even indicate a health condition.
In this blog, we’ll explore seven possible reasons for a white tongue, and when it’s time to give your dentist a call.
Table of Contents
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Oral Thrush (Fungal Infection)
- Dry Mouth
- Geographic Tongue
- Oral Lichen Planus
- Black Hairy Tongue
- Precancerous Conditions and Oral Cancer
- When To Be Concerned
- How to Prevent a White Tongue
- Regular Dental Checkups at Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley, CO
Key Takeaway
A white tongue is usually nothing to worry about and can often be fixed with proper oral hygiene. However, if the discoloration persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consult your dentist for a proper diagnosis. Regular dental checkups are your best defense in catching potential issues early and maintaining a healthy smile.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you’re not cleaning your tongue regularly, you might notice a white coating forming. This happens because dead cells, bacteria, and food debris accumulate on the surface of your tongue. It’s one of the most common reasons for a white coated tongue and it’s easy to fix with proper oral hygiene habits.
Improve your oral and dental care routine by brushing your tongue with a toothbrush or use a tongue scraper to clear away that whitish coating. Also, brushing twice a day, flossing, and staying hydrated can make a big difference for your oral health.
Oral Thrush (Fungal Infection)
Oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast, can leave your tongue covered in a thick, white coating that looks like cottage cheese. It can also affect the insides of your cheeks, leading to discomfort and changes in your sense of taste. This condition is more common if your immune system is compromised or if you use inhaled corticosteroids for asthma.
Treatment usually involves antifungal medication prescribed by your dentist.
Dry Mouth
When your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, you’re left with a dry mouth, which can lead to a white, coated tongue. Saliva is important for washing away bacteria and dead cells, so without enough of it, your tongue may start looking white.
Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, medications, or medical conditions like diabetes. To prevent this, make sure you drink plenty of water, chew xylitol gum to stimulate saliva production, and address any underlying medical conditions with your health care provider.
Geographic Tongue
A geographic tongue looks as interesting as it sounds. It is a harmless inflammatory condition where patches of your tongue lose their top layer, creating a map-like pattern. The exposed patches appear red and the surrounding areas often develop a white coating.
There’s no specific treatment needed, but it’s a good idea to avoid irritating foods like spicy or acidic dishes that can cause discomfort in the exposed areas. The condition can come and go, but rest assured that it’s not harmful to your overall oral health.
Oral Lichen Planus
Oral lichen planus is an immune-related condition that causes white, lace-like patches on the inside of your mouth, including your tongue. It can also lead to swelling, redness, and sometimes a burning sensation, especially when eating certain foods. The exact cause isn’t always clear and this condition is often linked to autoimmune responses.
If you suspect oral lichen planus, it’s important to see a dentist or health care professional for a proper diagnosis. Treatment might involve medications to reduce inflammation or manage discomfort, and regular checkups can help monitor the condition.
Black Hairy Tongue
Despite its alarming name, a black hairy tongue is a harmless condition where the papillae, the small bumps on the surface of your tongue, grow longer than usual, trapping bacteria and food particles. This can give your tongue a white, yellow, or even black appearance.
This is usually caused by an imbalance in the good bacteria in your mouth. It can also be caused by tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and overusing mouthwash or swishing with hydrogen with peroxide.
Individuals with a new tongue piercing are often told to swish regularly with mouthwash to keep the mouth free from harmful bacteria. Overusing mouthwash can get rid of the good bacteria along with the bad, causing a white or black tongue. If you are worried about infection, opt for a saltwater rinse instead.
To treat a black hair tongue, improve your oral hygiene routine: brush and floss every day. Use a tongue scraper after you brush to get all the residue and harmful bacteria off your tongue.
Precancerous Conditions and Oral Cancer
It’s rare, but a white tongue could signal something more serious like oral cancer or a precancerous condition. If you notice persistent white patches that don’t go away after improving your oral hygiene, or if you experience unexplained pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing, you should see a dentist right away.
When To Be Concerned
A white tongue is often harmless, but there are times when it’s a sign of an underlying issue. If your tongue remains white for more than two weeks despite improving your oral hygiene, or if you experience pain, it’s time to reach out to a dentist.
Oral cancer and precancerous conditions can be serious, so don’t ignore persistent symptoms.
Warning signs to watch for:
- White patches that don’t go away
- Swelling or pain in the mouth
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
How to Prevent a White Tongue
Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent a white tongue. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day.
- Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and food particles.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth.
- Visit your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Regular Dental Checkups at Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley, CO
Keeping your tongue and mouth healthy requires more than just at-home care. Regular dental checkups ensure that any underlying issues are caught early and treated effectively. At our dental office in Greeley, CO, we offer preventative care and personalized treatment plans to keep your smile healthy.
If you’re concerned about a white tongue or need a routine checkup, schedule an appointment with us today! Call (970) 515-3550 or complete the online inquiry form.
