Have you ever wondered what that white film on your tongue is? If you notice a white coating on your tongue in the mirror, there’s no need to worry. It is not worrisome but merely indicates that your mouth needs some extra care.
A white tongue typically occurs when dead cells, bacteria, food debris, or fungi get trapped between the tiny bumps on the tongue’s surface. It makes your tongue look whiter and dirtier instead of the natural pink color.
If you have a white tongue, read this blog to learn about the best white tongue treatment options and ways to get rid of it.
Read on!
Common Causes of White Tongue
Here are some common causes that lead to it:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dehydration
- Dry mouth
- Fungal infections like oral thrush
- Smoking or alcohol use
- Mouth breathing or illness
If you have a white tongue, you need medical attention because it can be a symptom of something serious. Thus, recognizing and addressing it early is crucial for maintaining your oral and overall health.
Is a White Tongue a Serious Problem?
No, it isn’t always a serious problem. In most cases, it can be resolved with better oral care. However, you must know when it is a significant issue.
A white tongue is harmless when:
- No pain or discomfort
- Disappears with tongue brushing or scraping
- Appears after dehydration or a cold
A white tongue is serious when:
- Persistent white coating that doesn’t improve
- Pain or burning sensation
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
7 Effective Home Remedies for White Tongue
If you have noticed a white tongue, you need not rush to the dentist at once. Here are some effective home remedies that would help you fix the problem. Check these out:
Salt Water Rinse
Mix one teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle with it twice a day to clean your tongue.
Baking Soda Scrub
Baking soda is a natural cleanser. Make a paste of soda and water and gently scrub it on your tongue with a toothbrush. It helps neutralize acids and remove debris.
Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Oil pulling is a renowned method of pulling out toxins. Take a teaspoon of coconut oil and swish it in your mouth for 10-15 minutes to reduce white tongue symptoms.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Drink aloe vera juice in a small, healthy amount daily, or rinse your mouth with it, to reduce white tongue symptoms.
Probiotics and Yogurt
A healthy diet does wonders for you. Adding probiotics in your diet, such as yogurt and prebiotic supplements, can help with white tongue.
Tongue Scraping
Use a tongue scraper to remove the white film. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to get rid of a white tongue.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain Oral Hygiene
Dehydration is one of the common causes of white tongue. So, keep yourself hydrated, brush twice a day, and floss regularly.
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent White Tongue
Making a few simple adjustments in your life will help get rid of not only the white tongue but several other health issues. Here is what you can change:
Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol irritate your mouth and reduce saliva production, leading to a buildup.
Eat a balanced, fiber-rich diet: Crunchy fruits and vegetables naturally clean the tongue and promote saliva flow.
Manage stress: Stress affects your immune system and can contribute to mouth conditions like thrush or dry mouth.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medicine for White Tongue
If natural remedies don’t help, you may need medical treatment, especially if an infection like oral thrush is present.
Some common options include:
- Antifungal mouth rinses or tablets: Often prescribed if yeast infections are the root cause.
- Antibacterial mouthwashes: To kill germs and reduce the coating.
- Zinc supplements: Zinc deficiency can cause white tongue in some cases.
- Hydrating mouth sprays: Useful for people suffering from dry mouth.
Visit Peace of Mind Dental Studio so we can check out your tongue and see if it’s just coating or a symptom of an underlying disease.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Most patients don’t consider a white tongue a problem, but you need professional assistance in the following cases:
- The coating doesn’t improve after two weeks
- It’s accompanied by fever, swelling, or pain
- You have difficulty eating, swallowing, or speaking
- You notice other symptoms like red patches, ulcers, or a burning tongue
Book an appointment now so we can examine your tongue and prescribe a tailored solution for your condition.
Finding the Right White Tongue Treatment at Peace of Mind Dental Studio
While a white tongue is not a medical emergency, it isn’t a condition to ignore either. There are simple treatment options, such as home remedies to get rid of white tongue, or medical assistance. Knowing when to seek help is also crucial, which we have covered in this blog.
So, if you have a white tongue that isn’t going away, book an appointment with us now. We will help diagnose the problem and create a tailored solution for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Que: What causes a white coating on the tongue?
Ans: There are multiple causes, including dehydration, dry mouth, fungal infections, smoking, etc.
Que: What is the best home remedy for white tongue?
Ans: Tongue scraping is the best way to get rid of white tongue. You can also try saltwater rinsing and oil pulling.
Que: Can a white tongue go away on its own?
Ans: Yes, it can if you practice good oral hygiene. If it doesn’t go away, visit us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio.
Que: What medicine can I take for white tongue?
Ans: Antifungal or antibacterial medications may be prescribed if an infection is the cause. Over-the-counter medicines and rinses also help.
Que: How long does it take to cure a white tongue?
Ans: It can be cured in a few days. However, persistent white tongues can last longer.