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White Tongue: Definition, symptoms, causes & treatment

TeamAckoJan 18, 2024

Oral health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and it is crucial to keep an eye on any changes that may occur in the mouth. One such change that people may experience is a White Tongue (WT). This condition can cause discomfort and embarrassment, and it can also be an indication of an underlying health problem. In this article, we will discuss everything crucial about this condition.

Contents

What is a White Tongue?
Symptoms of White Tongue
Causes of White Tongue
Treatment options for White Tongue
Risk factors of white tongue
Conditions linked to a White Tongue
When to see your doctor for White Tongue?
Will saltwater get rid of the White Tongue?
Does mouthwash get rid of the White Tongue?
What are the possible complications or risks of not treating White Tongue?
Do tongue piercings cause White Tongue?
Does a White Tongue mean you're sick?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a White Tongue?

A White Tongue refers to a medical issue where the colour of the tongue changes to white. Sometimes, it can also be yellowish due to the accumulation of dead cells, food particles, and bacteria on its surface. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and is not usually a serious problem on its own. However, it may indicate an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

Symptoms of White Tongue

Apart from the visible appearance of a white or yellowish coating on the tongue, other symptoms of White Tongue include the following.

Bad breath
Metallic taste in the mouth
Difficulty in swallowing
Dry mouth
Soreness or discomfort in the mouth

Causes of White Tongue

Several factors can contribute to the development of WT, including the following.

Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria and food particles on the tongue's surface, resulting in a white coating.
Mouth breathing: Mouth breathing can cause the tongue to dry out, making it more susceptible to bacteria and dead cell buildup.
Dehydration: Dehydration can lead to a dry mouth, making it easier for bacteria and dead cells to accumulate on the tongue's surface.
Yeast infection: An overgrowth of the Candida fungus in the mouth can cause white patches on the tongue and other areas in the mouth.
Medical conditions: Medical conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and cancer can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing WT.

Treatment options for White Tongue

Here are some treatment options.

Ensuring oral hygiene: Brushing the teeth twice a day and using a tongue scraper to remove dead cells and bacteria from the tongue's surface can be helpful.
Drinking adequate water: Drinking plenty of water can help keep the mouth hydrated and prevent the buildup of bacteria and dead cells on the tongue.
Medications: Antifungal medications can be used to treat yeast infections that cause WT. Over-the-counter mouthwashes can also be used to reduce bacteria and freshen the breath.
Addressing medical conditions: Treating underlying medical conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and cancer can help improve the immune system and reduce the risk of developing WT.

Risk factors of white tongue

The main risk factors when it comes to white tongue are:

Excess alcohol consumption
Age
Diabetes
Bad oral hygiene
Soft and spicy foods
Dentures
Hyperthyroidism
Fever
Anaemia/iron deficiency
Using products with tobacco
Dehydration
Overused antibiotics

Conditions linked to a White Tongue

WT can be linked to various health conditions, including the following.

Oral thrush: It can cause a white coating on the tongue, along with other symptoms such as soreness, redness, and difficulty in swallowing.
Leukoplakia: While leukoplakia is usually not serious, it can be a precancerous condition in some cases and requires monitoring and treatment.
Oral lichen planus: It can cause white patches on the tongue and other areas of the mouth, as well as other symptoms such as soreness, redness, and ulcers.
Geographic tongue: This is a condition in which the tongue develops irregular, red patches surrounded by a white border. While geographic tongue is usually harmless, it can cause discomfort or sensitivity to certain foods.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water or having a dry mouth can lead to a buildup of dead cells and bacteria on the tongue, causing a white coating.

When to see your doctor for White Tongue?

If you have a WT and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to see a doctor or dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

Persistent white coating on the tongue that does not go away with brushing or scraping
Soreness or discomfort on the tongue
Difficulty in swallowing or eating
Bad breath
Bleeding from the tongue
Red or inflamed patches on the tongue
Numbness or tingling sensation on the tongue
A change in taste or loss of taste sensation
Persistent dry mouth
White or red bumps on the tongue or other areas of the mouth

Will saltwater get rid of the White Tongue?

Saltwater gargles can help alleviate some symptoms associated with WT, but they may not necessarily get rid of the white coating itself. They work by reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth, which can help alleviate bad breath and some discomfort associated with WT. The saltwater solution can also help to stimulate saliva production, which can help to flush out bacteria and dead cells from the mouth.

To make a saltwater solution for gargling, mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds to a minute, then spit out the solution. Repeat this process a few times a day, especially after meals.

Does mouthwash get rid of the White Tongue?

Mouthwash may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with WT, such as bad breath, but it may not necessarily get rid of the white coating itself.

Mouthwash can help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, which can help to alleviate bad breath and some discomfort associated with WT. However, it is important to choose a mouthwash that is specifically designed for oral health and does not contain alcohol, as alcohol can dry out the mouth and exacerbate the symptoms of WT.

It is also important to note that mouthwash should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is essential for preventing and treating WT.

If the white coating persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to see a doctor or dentist for further evaluation and treatment. They can determine the underlying cause of the WT and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include oral hygiene practices, medications, or other interventions.

What are the possible complications or risks of not treating White Tongue?

If left untreated, WT may lead to certain complications or risks, such as follows.

Oral infections: The buildup of bacteria on the tongue can increase the risk of oral infections, such as thrush or oral candidiasis.
Halitosis: WT can cause bad breath, also known as halitosis, which can be embarrassing and affect your social life.
Difficulty in swallowing: In severe cases, WT can cause difficulty in swallowing or painful swallowing, which can affect your overall health and well-being.
Decreased sense of taste: WT may also affect your sense of taste, making it difficult to enjoy food or drinks.
Underlying health conditions: WT can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs to be addressed. If left untreated, the underlying condition may worsen and lead to other health complications.

Do tongue piercings cause White Tongue?

Yes, tongue piercings can cause WT as they can increase the buildup of bacteria and dead cells on the tongue. The jewellery itself can also irritate the tongue and cause inflammation, leading to a white coating. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and clean the tongue and jewellery regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and reduce the risk of WT or other oral infections. If you notice any persistent symptoms or signs of infection, it is advisable to see a doctor or dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

Does a White Tongue mean you're sick?

A WT can be an indication of an underlying health issue, but it does not necessarily mean that you are sick. However, in some cases, WT can be a sign of an underlying health condition. Thus, it is important to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms, such as bad breath, soreness, or difficulty in swallowing, and seek medical attention if you have any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here’s a list of FAQs about White Tongue.

Is White Tongue a serious condition?

WT is usually not a serious condition on its own. However, it can be an indication of an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed.

Can stress cause White Tongue?

Stress can weaken the immune system and make it easier for bacteria and dead cells to accumulate on the tongue, leading to WT.

Is a White Tongue contagious?

No, a WT is not contagious.

Can smoking cause White Tongue?

Yes, smoking can cause WT as it can dry out the mouth and increase the buildup of bacteria and dead cells on the tongue.

Can White Tongue be prevented?

Yes, maintaining good oral hygiene, drinking plenty of water, and addressing any underlying medical conditions can help prevent WT.

When should I see a doctor for White Tongue?

If you have a persistent white coating on your tongue accompanied by other symptoms like bad breath, soreness, or difficulty in swallowing, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. Please consult a doctor before making any health-related decisions.