What a White Tongue May Reveal About Your Health — and How to Treat It Naturally

A white tongue can have many different causes and is sometimes accompanied by a dry mouth or an unpleasant odor. In some cases, simply brushing your teeth is enough to make it go away — but what if that doesn’t help?

The content provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

What white tongue is

The white coating may cover the entire tongue, just a part of it, or appear in patches. It’s often accompanied by an unpleasant smell or taste. Sometimes, it looks as though small white hairs are growing on the surface — these are actually taste buds coated with organic debris, bacteria, and dead cells.

A white (or sometimes yellowish) film on the tongue can appear for various reasons, such as irritation or infection, and it usually clears up within a few days. However, if it persists for several weeks or causes pain while eating or speaking, it’s best to consult a doctor.

It’s also worth noting that the coating doesn’t always appear purely white. A healthy tongue should be pink, while a brownish one can result from drinking too much coffee or tea. A yellow tint may signal liver problems, and a bright red tongue could indicate a vitamin B deficiency.

Why the tongue becomes white

Usually, a white tongue forms when bacteria, food particles, or dead cells become trapped between the taste buds. As a result, the buds may swell or become inflamed, creating white patches on the surface of the tongue.

In some cases, this coating is linked to an underlying condition. One such example is geographic tongue — a relatively rare disorder characterized by irregular white patches. Its exact cause is unknown, but it’s often associated with consuming foods that irritate the tongue, as well as reactions to stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

Why white plaque appears on the tongue

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing a white coating on the tongue:

• Poor oral hygiene — not brushing, flossing, or cleaning your tongue regularly.
• Wearing dentures or accidentally injuring your tongue with sharp objects.
• Taking antibiotics, which can lead to a yeast infection in the mouth.
• An unbalanced diet, especially one low in fruits and vegetables and high in soft foods.
• Mouth breathing, which can dry out the mouth.
• Dry mouth caused by certain medical conditions or medications, such as muscle relaxants or cancer treatments.

Tongue thrush

Also known as oral thrush or candidiasis, this condition is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida — a type of yeast that naturally lives in the mouth. It usually appears as creamy white patches on the tongue and other areas inside the mouth and may be accompanied by redness, soreness, or difficulty swallowing.

People with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those taking certain medications such as antibiotics or corticosteroids are more prone to developing oral thrush. Treatment typically includes antifungal medications, while maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent it from recurring.

What piercings have to do with white tongue

After getting your tongue pierced, you might notice a white coating forming on its surface. This is a normal reaction — it occurs because bacterial activity in the mouth temporarily increases. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help clear it up. You may also see a small ring forming around the piercing, which is another normal sign that the tissue is healing.

If the white coating is the result of an injury, such as from a piercing, it should heal within about a week and a half. During this time, it’s best to avoid irritants like hot, spicy, or acidic foods and drinks.

How to get rid of white tongue at home

Here are some effective ways to help reduce or prevent a white coating on your tongue:

• Drink plenty of water — aim for at least eight glasses a day to keep your mouth hydrated.
• Brush your teeth regularly using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Clean your tongue with a toothbrush or tongue scraper to remove buildup.
• Use gentle dental products, such as mild fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
• Avoid harmful substances that may expose your tongue to toxins.
• Steer clear of irritating foods, including those that are spicy, salty, acidic, or very hot.

Who to talk to if you’re worried about your white tongue

• Your general practitioner can also examine your tongue, determine the cause, and prescribe appropriate treatment if the white coating indicates a more serious underlying issue.
• Your dentist can help remove the white coating from your tongue and prescribe medication if necessary.

Dealing with a white tongue is often straightforward, but you might be surprised by how your body reacts when you give up coffee. From sudden fatigue to unexpected cravings, the changes can be quite noticeable. Wondering what really happens when you quit coffee? Stay tuned to find out!