You look in the mirror this morning, stick out your tongue, and notice it’s covered with a whitish film, giving you a clear case of white tongue.
What exactly is causing this buildup, and how can you get rid of it?
If you’re dealing with white tongue, let’s explore together what might be behind it and how to address it effectively.
Contents
Why a white tongue?
What is white tongue?
White tongue is a condition characterized by a white or yellowish coating that appears on the surface of the tongue.
This coating is typically caused by an overgrowth of bacteria, fungi, or dead cells that accumulate on the tongue's papillae, the small projections that give the tongue its rough texture.
Symptoms of white tongue
The primary symptom of white tongue is the visible white or yellowish coating on the tongue.
This coating can range in thickness and may cover the entire tongue or appear in patches.
Other common symptoms include:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Altered taste perception
- Discomfort or a feeling of thickness in the mouth
- In some cases, the tongue may appear swollen or inflamed.
Causes of white tongue
There are several potential causes of white tongue:
1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning can lead to the buildup of bacteria, food particles, and dead cells on the tongue.
2. Dehydration and dry mouth: Reduced saliva production can contribute to the accumulation of debris on the tongue.
3. Certain medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs, can cause changes in the oral environment that lead to oral candidiasis.
4. Oral thrush: Also known as candidiasis, this fungal infection can cause a white, cottage cheese-like coating on the tongue.
5. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: These habits can irritate the tongue and contribute to the development of white tongue.
6. Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, leukoplakia, and oral cancer can sometimes manifest with white tongue as a symptom.
Home remedies for white tongue
Oil pulling
Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, can help remove the buildup of bacteria, fungi, and debris on the tongue.
Swish a tablespoon of high-quality oil like coconut or sesame oil in the mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spit it out.
Do this as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
Aloe Vera gel
Applying a small amount of natural aloe vera gel directly to the tongue can have a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, helping to reduce irritation and promote healing.
Coconut oil
Making regular mouthwash with pure coconut oil allows you to benefit from its antibacterial properties (aff).
This will significantly aid in rebalancing bacteria, thereby deterring tongue colonization.
Take a tablespoon of coconut oil and hold it in your mouth for 5-20 minutes before spitting it out and rinsing it with fresh water.
Probiotics
Consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth, preventing the overgrowth of harmful microorganisms that can lead to oral candidiasis.
Turmeric paste
Making a paste with turmeric powder and lemon juice and gently scrubbing it onto the tongue can help remove the white coating due to turmeric's antimicrobial properties.
Garlic
Eating raw garlic or taking a garlic supplement can be effective in treating oral thrush or fungal overgrowth, as garlic has potent antifungal properties.
Sea salt mouthwash
Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth.
The rough texture of sea salt can also help scrub away the white coating.
Mix the following:
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- a quarter teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice
Dip your toothbrush in this mixture then brush your tongue.
Baking soda scrub
Mixing baking soda with water to create a paste and gently brushing it onto the tongue can help neutralize acidity and promote healing.
It is ideal to fight mycosis of the tongue with regular mouthwashes (1 teaspoon for 100ml of water).
Lemon
Rich in vitamin C, lemon is protective and its acidity helps maintain oral PH.
It also has powerful antibacterial properties that will help you get rid of bacteria.
You can even mix lemon and baking soda to create a paste that you put on your toothbrush to scrape your tongue.
Tongue scraping
Using a specialized tongue scraper or even a clean spoon to gently scrape the surface of the tongue can help remove the white coating and debris.
Supplements for white tongue
Astragalus
Astragalus, an herb with immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, may support the body's natural ability to fight off the underlying causes of oral thrush (aff).
To solve a tongue problem, it is advisable to take a 6-month cure.
You will thus benefit from all its virtues and in particular its positive impact on stress.
Oregano oil
Oregano oil is certainly the most powerful natural antibiotic in the world.
It contains a compound called carvacrol and a certain rate of thymol which help eradicate bad bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and treat infections.
It is recommended not to use the oregano essential oil for more than ten days (aff).
Recommended dosage internally is 1 drop on half sugar 3 times a day with meals.
Combining probiotics with the oil of oregano can be a good idea.
Colloidal silver
Colloidal silver, a suspension of silver particles in liquid, has been shown to have antimicrobial effects that can potentially reduce the bacterial or fungal overgrowth contributing to the white coating on the tongue.
Prepare a mouthwash by diluting a tablespoon of colloidal silver 15ppm in equal parts of water (aff).
Use it for 5 minutes twice a day.
Probiotics
Probiotic supplements containing strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can help restore the balance of healthy bacteria in the mouth, preventing the overgrowth of harmful microbes that lead to white tongue.
You can choose between two main types of probiotic supplements to help address white tongue.
Standard probiotic supplements that support gut health can be beneficial, as they help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria.
Alternatively, you may opt for oral probiotics specifically formulated to target the mouth and oral microbiome.
These oral probiotic supplements typically contain strains like Lactobacillus and Streptococcus that can help fight inflammation, reduce cavities, and freshen breath (aff).
How to clean the tongue naturally?
Great news! Nine out of ten individuals can resolve this issue and the resulting bad breath by thoroughly cleaning and ensuring impeccable oral hygiene.
- Use interdental brushes to remove debris and plaque.
- Use a tongue scraper before brushing your teeth (aff).
- Brush your teeth 2-3 times a day. Choose a sonic electric toothbrush like this one (aff).
- Finish with a mouthwash of your choice for 60 seconds.
This routine of about ten minutes each day will save you many inconveniences such as troublesome bad breath or premature gum problems.
Candidosis white tongue
Candidosis, commonly known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast naturally present in the body.
Candida Albicans is a species of Candida that is typically present in small amounts in the human body, particularly in the mouth, gut, and vagina.
In most cases, the body's natural defenses keep Candida in check, preventing it from causing any issues.
However, certain factors can disrupt the balance of Candida and allow it to overgrow, leading to a fungal infection.
These factors may include:
- Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill off the beneficial bacteria that normally keep Candida in check, allowing it to proliferate.
- Corticosteroid use: Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to control Candida growth.
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or with the use of birth control pills, can contribute to Candida overgrowth.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can create an environment that is favorable for Candida growth.
Maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms through diet, hygiene, and addressing underlying health conditions is key.
Preventing the buildup of bacteria on your tongue?
Many individuals try to steer clear of fermented foods due to their lactic acid content, fearing that they may attract harmful bacteria alongside the beneficial ones.
However, the solution lies in supplying your body with beneficial bacteria and replenishing healthy flora.
Fermented foods offer an effective means to achieve this.
Incorporating fermented vegetables, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and cider vinegar into your diet can serve as excellent probiotics to address this issue.
How to get rid of white tongue permanently
While a white tongue can sometimes indicate untreated digestive disorders, it is commonly caused by inadequate oral hygiene or dehydration.
There are natural and simple tricks to minimize this problem.
There are also natural remedies that can help you get rid of it for good.
Related: Burning Mouth Syndrom: 10 Natural Solutions
White tongue FAQs
Can liver disease cause my tongue to turn white?
Yes, liver problems can sometimes result in a tongue covered with a whitish coating. Liver issues may cause changes in the body's metabolism, leading to conditions such as oral thrush or dehydration, which can manifest as a white tongue.
Can stress cause a white tongue?
Yes, stress can play a role in the appearance of a white tongue. It can weaken the immune system, disrupt the oral microbiome, and promote dryness of the mouth or mild infections, which can lead to tongue discoloration.
Can acid reflux cause a white tongue?
Yes, acid reflux can contribute to a white tongue. Acidic backflow irritates the mouth and can upset the oral ecosystem, encouraging the buildup of residues or bacteria responsible for the whitish appearance.
Does lemon help clean the tongue?
Lemon can help clean the tongue thanks to its natural antiseptic properties. However, it should be used in moderation because its acidity can weaken tooth enamel and irritate the mouth. Rinsing with water after use is recommended.
Who should you see for a white tongue?
If you have a persistent white tongue, it is recommended to consult a dentist or a general practitioner. They can identify the cause and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or an ENT doctor.