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White tongue can be caused by dead skin cells, bacteria, dry mouth, oral yeast infection, or early stages of oral cancer. Chronic dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, and oral yeast infection are common causes. Leukoplakia, a rare but dangerous cause, can be an early sign of oral cancer and should be taken seriously.
White tongue refers to cases where a person’s tongue is covered with a thin white film. Dead skin cells or bacteria on the surface of the tongue can make it look white. An individual might have a white tongue due to a variety of things, including excessive dry mouth, an oral yeast infection, or early stages of oral cancer.
Chronic dry mouth is one of the most common causes of white tongue. Dehydration is often the cause of dry mouth. People should drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration. If a person is taking antibiotics, plays sports frequently, or has spent a night drinking more alcoholic beverages, they may be at greater risk of dehydration.
Poor oral hygiene can also lead to dry mouth. People should be sure to brush their teeth several times a day. Flossing and using mouthwash also promote good oral hygiene. If a person is prone to this condition, light brushing of the tongue itself may be helpful.
Another common cause of this condition is an oral yeast infection, also known as thrush. Just like a vaginal yeast infection, thrush is caused by a fungus called candida. White tongue caused by oral thrush will be thicker and more painful than one caused by dehydration.
Denture wearers, people taking inhaled asthma medications, or those with chronic immune system disorders are among those at high risk of developing an oral yeast infection. A doctor can prescribe an antifungal mouthwash to treat candida. If an individual knows they are prone to thrush, regularly consuming yogurt and garlic can help prevent a recurrence, because these foods contain natural yeast-fighting properties.
One of the rarest but potentially most dangerous causes of white tongue is leukoplakia. Leukoplakia causes white patches to appear on the tongue, palate, and gums. Elderly individuals or those who have compromised immune systems have a higher risk of developing leukoplakia than others.
Leukoplakia should be taken seriously as it could be an early sign of oral cancer. Smokers or people who have had cancer elsewhere in the body should see a doctor as soon as possible if they suspect they have leukoplakia. A dentist or doctor can perform a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. The sooner the cancer is caught, the better the patient’s chances of recovery.
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