Ever peeked at your tongue in the mirror and noticed it’s looking a little, well, white? Don’t worry – you’re not turning into a ghost! A white tongue is quite common and usually nothing to be scared of. Our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, is here to explain.
In this post, our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut, dives into the reasons why your tongue might look like it’s been dusted with powdered sugar. And don’t worry – Dr. Horblitt also tells you how to get rid of white stuff on your tongue for a healthier, rose-colored tongue!
Why is my tongue white?
There are several reasons why your tongue might be sporting a snowy hue, including:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Just like your teeth, your tongue needs some love and attention. If you don’t brush it, food particles, bacteria, and dead cells can build up, forming a white coating.
Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can lead to a dry mouth, which makes it easier for debris and bacteria to stick around, causing that white layer.
Mouth Breathing
If you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, especially while sleeping, it can dry out your tongue, leading to a white appearance.
Oral Thrush
This is a yeast infection in your mouth that can cause white patches on the tongue. Oral thrush is not very common, with experts estimating around two million cases globally every year.
However, it’s more prevalent in infants, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
Leukoplakia
This condition causes raised, white patches on the inside of the mouth. It’s often linked to irritation from tobacco use and needs a check-up from our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut.
Geographic Tongue
This harmless condition causes map-like red patches with white borders on the tongue. It might look odd, but it’s not dangerous.
Medications
Certain antibiotics or medications that dry out your mouth can lead to a white tongue.
How to Get Rid of the White Stuff on Your Tongue
Ready to reclaim your pink tongue? Here’s how you can banish that white stuff:
Brush Your Tongue
Make tongue brushing a part of your twice-daily oral care routine. Our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut recommends specialized tools, like a tongue scraping device, to get rid of white stuff on the tongue.
Stay Hydrated
Sip plenty of uncarbonated, unflavored water as the day goes along to wash away tongue debris.
Quit Smoking
Quitting can improve your oral health and reduce the chances of developing white patches on your tongue.
Healthy Diet
Avoid sweet and sour treats, opting instead for a diet rich in fruits and vegetables for a healthy tongue and mouth.
Visit Our Dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut
If your white tongue persists despite good oral hygiene, it’s time to see our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut. Dr. Horblitt can determine if there’s an underlying condition that needs treatment.
Have a question? Ask our dentist in Fairfield, Connecticut!
Do you have a question or concern that you’d like our dentist in Fairfield, CT, to address? Contact Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., online or at (203) 335-1011 for answers and advice now. And remember – show your tongue some love every time you brush!
