White Tongue: Causes and Treatments

What Causes White Tongue?

A white tongue happens when debris, bacteria, and dead cells get trapped between the tiny bumps (papillae) on your tongue. Some of the most common causes include:

• Poor Oral Hygiene – If you’re not brushing your tongue, bacteria and food particles can accumulate, leading to a white coating.

• Dehydration or Dry Mouth – A lack of saliva allows bacteria to thrive, contributing to tongue discoloration.

• Diet – Eating a lot of soft, processed foods can reduce tongue exfoliation, causing buildup.

• Smoking and Alcohol Use – Both can irritate your tongue and dry out your mouth, making white tongue more likely.

• Mouth Breathing – Breathing through your mouth instead of your nose can dry out your tongue, reducing saliva flow and increasing bacterial buildup.

• Oral Thrush – A fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast, which appears as white patches.

• Medical Conditions – Conditions like leukoplakia or lichen planus can also lead to a white tongue, though these are less common.

How to Get Rid of White Tongue

1. Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Make sure to brush your teeth for two minutes twice daily, floss, tongue scrape and use an antibacterial mouthwash.  Your tongue harbours bacteria that contribute to bad breath and a white coating. 

Use a High-Quality Tongue Scraper

One of the most effective ways to remove white tongue buildup is by using a tongue scraper. Unlike a toothbrush, a tongue scraper physically removes the gunk trapped on your tongue.

The Hint Oral Tongue Scraper is designed to gently yet effectively remove bacteria and food debris buildup, leaving your tongue clean and breath fresh. 

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain saliva production and wash away the bacteria and food build up.

3. Rinse with Mouthwash

An alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and keep your tongue clean.

4. Use Mouth Tape 

Use a mouth tape to reduce mouth breathing in your sleep. 

5. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol

Cutting back on smoking and drinking can help prevent irritation and dryness that contribute to white tongue.

6. Contact a Doctor 

If you feel that your white tongue is persisting, even after implementing the above methods please visit your doctor as it may be linked to a health condition. 

 

If you’re dealing with white tongue, the best solution is prevention. Using a tongue scraper daily, staying hydrated and maintaining a good oral care routine should help.