How To Remove The White Layer On The Tongue
White tongue is a coating of debris, bacteria and dead cells on the tongue, making it appear white. Most people may consider the appearance of a white tongue an annoying sight, due to our habit of the red color. Although this condition is not associated with pain, we want to get rid of it very much. In addition, this condition is usually harmless and temporary. However, in a few cases, a white tongue can be an indication of some serious conditions, ranging from infection to the presence of a cancerous condition.
Causes of white tongue
- A white coating on the tongue can appear as a result of bacteria, debris, and food residues accumulating on the surface of the tongue due to mild dryness.
- Illness (when there is less use of the tongue either for speaking or eating), causing dry mouth.
- The appearance of a white top layer on the tongue or the presence of a few white spots can result from an infection or chronic or temporary inflammation that has affected the surface of the tongue. Some mouth infections are characterized by the appearance of the tongue in white. On the other hand, some infections, such as scarlet fever, can produce red spots on the tongue.
Inflammation and whitening of the tongue
- Inflammation can occur as a result of dryness or environmental irritants such as smoking, and may be associated with bad breath.
- It is known that glossitis appears as white spots (“leukoplakia”) on the tongue, and these spots can also be cancerous, which is not common.
Other conditions associated with white spots or discoloration of the tongue include:
- Some medications may cause dry mouth and thus lead to the appearance of a white layer.
- Geographic tongue (a condition in which your tongue gives the appearance of a map)
- Leukoplakia (may be a precursor to cancer)
- Suffering from oral lichen planus (a chronic, autoimmune disorder)
- Oral thrush (yeast infection, also known as candidiasis)
- Syphilis (a bacterial infection usually spread through sexual contact)
When to see a doctor
A white tongue is usually harmless, and you may find relief by simply cleaning your tongue with a toothbrush with a tongue scraper or using a tongue scraper. Drinking plenty of water may also help. But if you're concerned about a white coating or white spots on your tongue, contact your doctor or dentist. You should also make an appointment with your doctor if:
- If you are concerned about changes in your tongue.
- The appearance of the layer is accompanied by pain.
- If the white tongue persists for more than two weeks.