This page will help answer your questions.
What is White Tongue?
White Tongue is a condition characterized by a white coating or discoloration on the surface of the tongue.
What causes White Tongue?
Leukoplakia: A condition in the mouth involving thick white patches on the mucous membranes (lining) of the mouth, gums, or tongue.
Syphilis: A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that may cause white patches in the mouth during its secondary stage.
Oral Thrush: A fungal infection in the mouth.
Geographic Tongue: An inflammatory condition affecting the surface of the tongue.
Oral Lichen Planus: A chronic (long-term) inflammatory condition of the mouth.
How do you deal with White Tongue? Tips to help you manage White Tongue.
Here are some tips that may help you deal with White Tongue:
Brush your teeth 2-3 times daily using a soft toothbrush.
Drink adequate amounts of water.
Use a straw when drinking cold beverages.
Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to gently clean the surface of your tongue and remove bacteria or debris.
Quit smoking.
Have regular check-ups with your dentist.
When should you see a doctor?
See a doctor if you experience tongue pain, itching, or if the condition persists.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can a White Tongue indicate a serious problem?
In cases where there are risk factors such as smoking or the use of cancer-causing products like smokeless tobacco, White Tongue might indicate cancerous changes. Therefore, it is recommended to have regular follow-ups with your dentist every 3 to 6 months.