“Seeing white patches or coating on your tongue? In most cases, this is harmless and can go away on its own. However, a white tongue can also be caused by certain medical conditions, which can be serious if left untreated. Starting from leukoplakia, fungal infections, to syphilis.”
White tongue is a common symptom when the tongue looks like it has a thick white coating, or may appear in patches. This can also be accompanied by unpleasant symptoms and bad breath.
White tongue can also build up over time or may appear suddenly if there is irritation or infection on the tongue.
This condition can occur due to many causes but usually disappears within a few weeks. So, what are the causes of this condition? Here’s the discussion!
Various Possible Causes of White Tongue Color
White tongue is usually caused when bacteria, dirt, and dead cells become trapped between the papillae on the surface of the tongue.
The string-like papillae then grow large and swollen, sometimes becoming inflamed. This creates white patches or coating on the tongue.
This can also occur due to several conditions such as:
1. Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a condition that occurs due to excessive growth of cells in the lining of the mouth.
These cells combine with keratin protein and form white patches on the tongue.
In most cases, this condition occurs due to irritation of the mouth and tongue from drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco. But sometimes, there is no clear cause.
Leukoplakia is usually not a serious condition but it can also turn into oral cancer if not treated properly.
2. Oral Lichen Planus
Oral lichen planus is a chronic or long-term inflammation of the mouth. Its causes are immune system disorders and other microscopic threats.
3. Geographical Tongue
Geographic tongue occurs when the skin on the tongue grows back. Parts of the top layer of skin on the tongue shed too quickly, leaving a tender red area that often becomes infected.
Meanwhile, other parts of the tongue remain in place for too long and turn white.
4. Fungal Infection in the Mouth (Oral Thrush)
This is an infectious condition in the mouth caused by the Candida fungus.
Although this fungus is normally found in the mouth, it can become a problem when it grows too much.
5. Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It is a serious condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including a white tongue.
In addition, one of the threats that can attack the tongue is tongue cancer.
Factors That Increase Risk
There are several factors that put someone at higher risk of white tongue than others, such as:
- Having diabetes.
- Lack of consumption of fruits and vegetables.
- Have a weak immune system.
- Wearing dentures or damaging the tongue with a sharp object.
- Having poor oral hygiene.
- Frequent mouth breathing.
- Dry mouth due to dehydration, certain medical conditions, or use of medications (such as muscle relaxants).
- Smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Having hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid gland causes poor metabolism.
These are some things that can cause a white tongue. Usually, this condition is harmless and temporary.
Depending on your symptoms, you may need to wait to see if it goes away on its own.