What causes a white coating on the tongue?
I recently noticed a white coating on my tongue, which looks quite unusual. I would like to ask the doctor, what causes a white tongue coating?
Doctor's answer (1)
White coating on the tongue is a common oral phenomenon, and its possible causes include:
1. Digestive system issues: Gastrointestinal discomfort or indigestion often presents as a white tongue coating. Conditions such as excessive stomach heat and chronic gastritis can cause the tongue coating to become thick and white.
2. Excessive internal dampness: Accumulation of dampness in the body can lead to a white and thick tongue coating. This condition is often accompanied by other symptoms such as heaviness in the limbs and a sticky sensation in the mouth.
3. Poor oral hygiene: A white tongue coating can also result from inadequate oral hygiene. Bacteria and food debris accumulating on the tongue surface may form a white coating.
If the white tongue coating persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as bad breath, difficulty swallowing, or fever, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation.
