There are many possible causes for white tongue, and in some cases, it comes with an unpleasant odor and mouth dryness. To get rid of it, sometimes you just need to brush your teeth. But what should you do if that doesn’t help?
❗ This article is for informative purposes only and can’t replace the advice of a specialist.
What white tongue is
The white film may cover the entire tongue, part of it, or appear as spots. At the same time, an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth may appear. It looks as if there are small white hairs on the tongue’s surface. In fact, they are buds covered with organic particles, bacteria, and dead cells.
White plaque on the tongue (which can also be yellow) may appear for different reasons, like due to irritation or because of an infection. It usually disappears after several days. If the situation doesn’t change for several weeks, and it’s painful to eat and talk, it’s best to see a doctor.
It’s important to note that the plaque may not only be white. While a pink tongue is normal, a brown tongue means the person drinks too much coffee or tea. A yellow tongue means there’s something wrong with the liver, and a red tongue is a sign that the person lacks vitamin B.
Why the tongue becomes white
Usually, the tongue becomes white due to bacteria, leftover bits of food, or dead cells that get stuck in between the buds. Because of this, the buds may increase in size or become inflamed. This is how white spots on the tongue’s surface appear.
Sometimes, the plaque appears due to an illness. For example, the geographic tongue is also a condition where white spots appear on the tongue. It’s quite rare, and the causes are unknown, but the condition itself is often connected to eating foods that irritate the tongue. It may also be a reaction to stress, an illness, or hormonal changes.
Why white plaque appears on the tongue
There are some things that make the appearance of white plaque on the tongue more probable:
- Age
- Taking antibiotics (white-yellow plaque appearing when there’s a fungal infection in the mouth)
- A diet that’s lacking enough fruits, vegetables, vitamin B12, and iron
- A weak immune system
- Bad mouth hygiene
- Dental prosthetics or other objects that can damage the tongue
- Dehydration and mouth dryness
What piercings have to do with white tongue
Right after piercing the tongue, there might be some white film present. This happens because the number of bacteria on the tongue increases, and it’s normal. Antibacterial mouthwash will help you get rid of it. Plus, there might be a ring around the piercings, which is normal too, and it means the tissue is healing.
If the plaque appears due to an injury (including piercings), the healing should take around 1.5 weeks. You should avoid irritants, such as hot, spicy, or sour foods and drinks.
How to get rid of white tongue at home
- Practice good mouth hygiene.
- Drink enough water.
- Brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush.
- Use a mild fluoride toothpaste — one that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Use fluoride mouthwash.
- Brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove the white coating.
- Drink cold drinks through a straw.
- Avoid food and drinks that are spicy, salty, acidic, or very hot in temperature.
Who to talk to if you’re worried about your white tongue
- Your dentist can help you remove the white film from the tongue and prescribe medications if needed.
- Your GP can diagnose the tongue, prescribe you certain medications and determine if the white tongue is an indicator of a more serious issue.
What do you do about white tongue?
Preview photo credit Genusfotografen (genusfotografen.se) & Wikimedia Sverige (wikimedia.se) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, Martanopue / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Sales Assistant Insults My Wife—You Won’t Believe the Revenge I Got Days Later
Recently, my lovely wife decided to turn her love for fashion into a career. She started looking for jobs in retail, thinking it would be a perfect match for her interests.
One afternoon, she came home upset and told me what had happened. Emma explained that earlier that day, she had gone to the shopping center.
While walking around, she noticed a popular lingerie store with a “Now Hiring” sign in the window.
She shared how her excitement quickly faded when she approached the sales assistant to ask about the job.
The rude woman didn’t even look at my wife until she was standing right in front of her. Despite feeling a bit discouraged, Emma still asked about the application process with enthusiasm. Instead of answering kindly, the assistant gave her a nasty look and said:
When Emma got home, she was in tears, heartbroken by the cruel remark. I had never seen her so devastated before, and it shattered me to see her like that.
Over the next few days, I came up with a plan. I called my friend Mike, who works in the fashion industry, and told him what had happened. Mike was eager to help.
“That’s unbelievable,” Mike said on the phone. “I’ll help you out. Let’s give her a taste of her own medicine.” A few days later, I got ready and went back to the lingerie store with Emma’s help.
I made sure the same sales assistant was working that day. I started browsing the aisles, waiting for the right moment. When the store was quiet, I approached the assistant with a friendly smile.
“Hello, I’m looking for something special for my wife. Can you help me?” I asked. Her attitude changed immediately when she saw a potential sale. She became very helpful and started showing me different items.
“Of course, sir! We have a fantastic selection. What’s the occasion?” she asked sweetly. “Just a surprise for my wife. I want to get her something really special,” I replied, acting thoughtful.
How about this piece? It’s one of our bestsellers,” she suggested, holding up a delicate lace set. “Do you think this would look good on her?” I asked, examining the lingerie. “Oh, definitely! It’s one of our top items. She’ll love it,” she assured me.
“Can you show me a few more options? I want to make sure I get the perfect one,” I said, keeping her engaged. As she showed me more pieces, I made small talk to keep her interested. “How long have you worked here?” I asked.
“About six months,” she replied. “It’s a great job if you have the right look for it.” I nodded, pretending to be interested. “Do they hire often?”
“Only when they really need someone. They’re picky about who they hire,” she said with a touch of pride.
I wrapped my arms around her, trying to comfort her. “My love, don’t listen to her. You’re beautiful and talented, and you’re worth so much more than her words,” I told her softly. “But why would she say that?” Emma sobbed. “I just wanted to apply for a job. I didn’t deserve that.”
“She’s small-minded, my angel,” I said, trying to console her. Seeing her so sad made me FURIOUS! No one should ever treat my wife like that and think they can get away with it!
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