Did you know that your tongue is the strongest muscle in your body? In fact, Thomas Blackthorne lifted a world record 24-pound, 3-oz weight with his tongue alone! However, just because your tongue is strong, doesn’t mean that it’s invincible. Many people notice that their tongue can turn white and textured on the surface. What does this mean and is there a way to prevent it? Keep reading to discover the answers from your dentist in Naples.
What Does Having a White Tongue Mean?
Because you use your tongue for a lot of different things like tasting, chewing, talking, and more, it can be frustrating if it feels sore or discolored. Typically, your tongue is pink and covered with small papillae—the little bumps you can feel on the surface. There are a wide-range of causes of a discolored tongue, and thankfully, most tongue issues can be cured swiftly. However, a discolored or painful tongue can sometimes mean more serious problems like AIDS, vitamin deficiencies, or oral cancer, which is why it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms.
What Causes White Tongue?
Here are 3 of the most common causes of white tongue:
Leukoplakia
This condition causes the cells in your mouth to grow more rapidly, which leads to white patches inside of your mouth and on your tongue. It is usually harmless on its own, but it can often be a first sign of oral cancer and it’s commonly found in those who use tobacco products. That’s why you should get in to see your dentist if you notice any symptoms.
Oral Thrush
This condition is a yeast infection that develops inside of the mouth. It can result in white patches on your tongue that almost looks and feels like cottage cheese. This is most common in infants and older people with dentures or weakened immune systems. Eating plain yogurt, taking medicine, and consuming live cultures can help cure oral thrush.
Oral Lichen Planus
If you have a series of raised white lines on your tongue, you may have this condition. These white lines have a lace-like appearance, and dentists typically can’t tell the exact origin of this issue. Although it typically goes away on its own, you can practice proper oral healthcare, cut back on foods that irritate your mouth, and stay away from tobacco use to minimize your risk.
Now that you know more about white tongue and what causes it, use these tips to stay on top of your oral health. If you notice any of the conditions above, visit your dentist to rule out any more serious issues.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny enjoys improving the oral health of his patients in Naples. He believes in patient education, which is why he wants you to know what white tongue is and how to look out for it. He currently practices at Island Coast Dental, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (239) 261-5566 for any questions.