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
Paris Hilton Claps Back at Trolls Who Criticized the Size of Her Son’s Head
Paris Hilton has had enough people online telling her to take her son to a doctor because of how his head looks. After weeks of heated debate among fans, she finally spoke about it candidly and addressed the haters directly.People were concerned about Phoenix’s health.
Paris Hilton’s journey into motherhood began on a memorable day in January of this year when she welcomed her precious son, Phoenix, into the world. The news of her baby’s birth was met with an outpouring of love and well-wishes from fans and friends worldwide.
Throughout these six months, she has shared precious moments of their mother-son bond, providing fans with glimpses of their beautiful connection. Yet, alongside the happiness, concerns have arisen among some of Paris Hilton’s devoted followers.
Paris Hilton’s heartfelt post about her baby boy, Phoenix, elicited a mixed response in the comments. While many expressed their love and admiration for the adorable child, some couldn’t help but raise concerns about his well-being, urging her to “bring him to the doctor!”
One comment said, “You need to give your baby tummy time. He is already showing signs of a flat head.” Another comment even requested Hilton: “Phoenix is extremely cute, but please consider having him check.”
She got tired of the criticism and responded.
Paris Hilton has defended her baby boy on social media after people commented about his head size. Responding to online comments, she expressed her disappointment with the negativity and stated that her child is perfectly healthy. “There are some sick people in this world. My angel is perfectly healthy,” she wrote on TikTok. “And yes, of course, he has been to a doctor, he just has a large brain.”
Talking about working moms, supermodel Naomi Campbell has made headlines as she recently welcomed her second baby at the age of 53. The news has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, celebrating the joyous moment in her life.
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