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
Kim Kardashian Sparks Concern With Her ‘Wonky Eye’ That She ‘Tries to Hide’; Nurse Weighs In
For several weeks, eagle-eyed fans have been accusing reality TV star Kim Kardashian of attempting to conceal a “wonky eye.” Numerous red carpet appearances have featured her right eye hidden beneath a carefully placed fringe, as seen at the OSCARS 2024 Vanity Fair After Party and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures event. Additionally, paparazzi shots have consistently shown her wearing sunglasses in low-light settings.
Her rumored eye problem has sparked speculation, including a professional opinion from nurse Carolyn Clark.
Clark believes Kardashian is suffering from ptosis, a side effect of improperly administered Botox injections. Ptosis occurs when anti-wrinkle injections are placed too low in the frontalis muscle or eyelid, leading to muscle weakness and a drooping eyelid. Fortunately, the condition is temporary. However, it is important to note that these claims are based on observations and speculation, and there has been no official confirmation from Kardashian or her representatives regarding any Botox treatments or complications.
“Ptosis is something annoying that can happen with Botox… it’s rare, but it does happen. It’s when the Botox is injected a little too low into the frontalis or into the eyelid muscle, and it makes the lid droop. It doesn’t last forever thankfully, it goes away when the Botox wears off.”
Clark shared her thoughts on TikTok, causing a surge of interest and various theories from fans.
Some have suggested that Kardashian’s issue could be related to a lack of sleep, while others believe she may be allergic to Botox. A few have even proposed that the condition could be genetic, drawing attention to similar appearances of her mother’s eyes.
This latest buzz only adds to ongoing speculation about Kardashian’s plastic surgery and aesthetic procedures.
While she has admitted to using Botox, she denies undergoing any further surgical enhancements. However, cosmetic surgery experts disagree, pointing to evidence that suggests multiple non-surgical procedures and possible breast and butt implants.
As one of the world’s most closely watched celebrities, Kim Kardashian is no stranger to public scrutiny and speculation about her appearance. While fans continue to analyze her every move, it is essential to remember that any claims about her cosmetic procedures or alleged complications remain unconfirmed. As with all matters concerning personal health, privacy and respect should be paramount.
Speaking of dramatic changes, Khloé Kardashian recently sported a bold new hair color. We’ll be diving deeper into this fiery transformation in our next piece, so don’t miss out!
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