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
Moments of Authenticity: Adele Embraces Comfort and Normalcy
Everybody has times when they just want to feel at ease, carefree, and authentic. And what do you know? Adele, the superstar, is no different. The singer was caught off guard and without makeup in a rare moment that the paparazzi just managed to film. She looks extremely gorgeous, I must say!
Adele has never been out of the spotlight because to her unforgettable vocals and stirring performances. However, after she underwent a dramatic makeover and dropped a few pounds, the public has grown quite interested in what she looks like. The paparazzi are always waiting to catch her every move when she comes outside.
Adele hasn’t performed on a stage in three long years, and her agonizing divorce from her husband—the father of her son—is the reason behind her absence. Her mental health was negatively impacted by this heartbreak, and she still gets emotional when she talks about it. Adele, meanwhile, has remained a strong and committed lady throughout it all.
Adele attracted attention with her chic all-black outfit during a recent sighting. Fans started talking about her because of her carefree appearance and slightly enlarged face. Some fans even made remarks about how heavy she was, while others complimented her on being a wonderful mother in addition to a brilliant vocalist.
These kinds of incidents serve as a reminder that famous people are people too. They should have times of solace and normalcy because they are human and have their own ups and downs as well as struggles. Adele is an inspiration to many people who struggle with self-image because of her carefree appearance and informal clothes.
Therefore, let’s celebrate Adele for who she really is—a brilliant artist with a tale to tell—and love her in all of her sincerity. Let’s not forget that genuine beauty originates from within and that everyone of us can find solace in being who we are.
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