How to treat a white tongue

If you notice your tongue turning white while brushing in the morning, it might catch you off guard. A white tongue occurs when the tongue's papillae swell, trapping dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. While it may seem unpleasant, a white tongue is generally harmless and tends to resolve on its own. There are several simple ways to address the issue and determine whether it might signal a more serious underlying condition.

Consult a general practitioner or dentist if you experience additional symptoms that might indicate a more serious health issue. Other signs you should look out for include:

• Tongue pain
• Dehydration
• Fever
• A white tongue that doesn’t go away after several weeks

Distinguishing Between White Tongue and Geographic Tongue. Generally, both of these conditions are not serious.

• Geographic tongue occurs when smooth patches develop where the tongue's papillae have worn down.
• Strong-tasting foods (spicy, sour, salty) can cause discomfort.

Identifying Oral Thrush. Oral thrush is a yeast infection - a common cause of white tongue. It is easily treatable and often occurs after using antibiotics.

• You may also experience a burning sensation on your tongue. Additionally, the skin at the corners of your mouth may crack and become painful.
• Antifungal mouthwashes or pills can help effectively treat oral thrush. Be sure to take the full prescribed dose.
• Taking probiotics or eating yogurt with probiotics may help balance the bacteria in your mouth.
• You can also use antifungal spices such as garlic, oregano, cinnamon, sage, and cloves.
• Avoid fermented foods like milk (except yogurt), alcohol, and sugar. Eat healthy foods like seeds, whole grains, and vitamin C-rich foods.

Understanding Serious Conditions That Can Cause White Tongue, But Don’t Panic. Most cases of white tongue are not harmful and resolve on their own. However, you should seek medical attention if you suspect you have a more serious illness. There are many causes of white tongue, and it can be hard to diagnose on your own.

• Oral leukoplakia is a condition that causes white patches on the tongue due to excessive cell and protein production. This condition is generally not dangerous, but a doctor visit is recommended to rule out cancer.
• Oral lichen planus is an immune condition that may cause pain and a burning sensation.
• Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease, can cause a white coating on the tongue as it progresses. If you suspect syphilis, you should visit a doctor for penicillin treatment.
• Oral or tongue cancer
• HIV/AIDS

Avoid Dehydration. Dehydration and dry mouth can lead to a white tongue. Staying hydrated helps prevent white tongue.

• The amount of water you need each day varies based on your weight, activity level, and climate. Make sure to drink water regularly. Thirst is a sign that your body is dehydrated.
• Check for other signs of dehydration, such as infrequent urination, dark-colored urine, fatigue, or headaches.

Quit Smoking. Smoking can lead to inflammation of the taste buds, allowing dead cells and debris to get trapped between the inflamed papillae. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow.

• Cigarette smoke also contains harmful chemicals that affect the tissues of the mouth.

Reduce Alcohol Consumption. Drinking excessive alcohol can also lead to inflammation of the taste buds.

• Alcohol can also cause dehydration, which contributes to white tongue.

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene. Keeping your mouth clean helps reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth.

• Brush your teeth and tongue immediately after each meal.
• Brush your teeth and tongue before bed.
• Use antibacterial mouthwash daily.

Brush Your Tongue with a Toothbrush. Brushing your tongue helps remove dead cells, bacteria, and debris from the papillae and grooves of the tongue.

• You may choose to brush your tongue with or without toothpaste, although toothpaste can help freshen your breath.
• Avoid brushing too harshly to prevent irritation or damage to your tongue.

Gently scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper. Some toothbrushes are designed with a back surface specifically for scraping the tongue.

• Lightly scrape your tongue from the back to the front. Avoid scraping too far back to prevent gagging.
• Scraping too harshly can hurt your tongue. Be careful not to create any open sores or risk infection on your tongue.

Rinse your mouth with water. This helps wash away debris, bacteria, and dead cells.

• Dry mouth can lead to white tongue, so rinsing with water can help treat this condition.

Disinfect your mouth with strong antibacterial mouthwash or saltwater solution. Although the taste of mouthwash or saltwater may be unpleasant, it helps kill off some bacteria that thrive in your mouth.

• You can prepare a saltwater solution by dissolving 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
• It’s best to hold the mouthwash or saltwater in your mouth and swish continuously for 2 minutes. Your tongue may feel a little sore when using strong antibacterial mouthwash.
• Tilt your head back and gargle for about 1 minute, then spit out the mouthwash. This helps eliminate bacteria deeper in your throat that can't be reached by scraping or brushing your tongue.
• You may ask your dentist for a prescription mouthwash if necessary.

Brush your tongue with natural remedies. Though not scientifically proven, many people believe natural treatments can help cure white tongue.

• Mix lemon juice with turmeric powder, then use a toothbrush to rub it onto your tongue. Turmeric has antibacterial properties, while lemon juice helps dissolve dead skin cells and kill bacteria.
• You can also rub your tongue with a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice. Baking soda helps scrub the tongue clean.