What causes a white tongue?

Generally, a white tongue may be caused by poor oral hygiene, unfavorable living environment, dehydration, stomatitis, or oral lichen planus. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing, sticky diets, and improper cleaning of food debris—common poor oral hygiene habits—may lead to thickened tongue coating, causing the tongue to appear white. It is important to improve oral hygiene and regularly use dental floss to clean between teeth.

2. Unfavorable Living Environment

Long-term exposure to damp and cold environments may lead to excessive internal dampness, manifesting as a pale, greasy tongue. It is advisable to maintain a dry and well-ventilated living environment and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration can cause dryness of the oral mucosa and thickening of the tongue coating, resulting in a whitish appearance of the tongue. Adequate fluid intake should be maintained daily to preserve the body's fluid balance.

4. Stomatitis

Stomatitis is often associated with unhealthy eating habits, bacterial infections, allergies, and other factors. Chronic inflammation may lead to atrophy of the lingual papillae, resulting in a smooth, whitish tongue, usually accompanied by symptoms such as dry mouth and reduced taste sensation. Patients may take antiviral oral solution, Lanqin oral solution, acyclovir tablets, or similar medications under medical guidance.

5. Oral Lichen Planus

Oral lichen planus may be triggered by deficiencies in trace elements, psychological trauma, endocrine disorders, and other causes, leading to the formation of white, lace-like patches on the tongue mucosa, possibly accompanied by pain or a burning sensation. Patients may use tripterygium glycosides tablets, prednisone acetate tablets, tretinoin cream, or similar treatments under a doctor’s supervision.

Routine tooth brushing and proper tongue cleaning should be practiced regularly to reduce tongue coating buildup. Maintaining a balanced diet and reducing alcohol consumption are also beneficial for oral health.