What does it mean when a baby's tongue is white?

Under normal circumstances, a white coating on an infant's tongue may be caused by residual milk residue, normal tongue coating, vitamin deficiency, cold due to wind and cold invasion, or candidiasis. If abnormalities are observed, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Residual Milk Residue

During breastfeeding, milk residue may remain on the infant’s tongue if not thoroughly cleaned, forming a white film after drying. After each feeding, gently wipe the infant’s tongue with a clean gauze pad moistened with warm water to help remove any remaining milk residue.

2. Normal Tongue Coating

Newborn infants may develop a white tongue coating due to the influence of maternal hormones. Their oral bacterial types and quantities are relatively low at birth, which can lead to this temporary condition. No special treatment is required; as the infant grows, the oral microbiota gradually balances out and the coating naturally resolves.

3. Vitamin Deficiency

A deficiency in vitamins B2 or B12 may lead to inflammation of the infant’s oral mucosa, manifesting as a white tongue. The infant may also experience symptoms such as mouth ulcers and poor appetite. Adjust the infant’s diet accordingly, and under medical guidance, introduce formula milk, vegetable puree, liver puree, or meat paste to supplement vitamin B.

4. Cold Due to Wind and Cold Invasion

If an infant catches a cold from exposure to cold, pathogenic wind-cold may invade the body surface and lung-protective system, impairing lung function, resulting in a thin white tongue coating. Symptoms may include clear nasal discharge and mild fever. Ensure the infant stays warm and gets adequate rest, and encourage drinking warm water. Treatment may include cold remedies such as Fenghan Ganmao Granules, Jingfang Granules, or Chuanyu Fenghan Ironing Agent, used according to medical advice.

5. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Candida is a common fungus. When an infant's immune system is weak or oral hygiene is poor, Candida can overgrow and form white patches in the mouth. Infants may show signs such as difficulty feeding and irritability. It is recommended to use antifungal treatments such as compound clotrimazole solution, ketoconazole wash, or itraconazole oral solution under medical supervision to relieve symptoms.

Parents should pay attention to the infant’s oral hygiene, cleaning nipples and bottle nipples before and after feeding. Feeding should follow a pattern of small, frequent meals to avoid overfeeding.