White Tongue

Symptoms & Signs Index

Whitening of the tongue can occur when there is a buildup of bacteria and debris on the surface of the tongue due to mild dehydration, illness (when there is less use of the tongue for talking or eating), or dryness of the mouth. A whitening of the top layer of the tongue or the presence of white spots or patches on the tongue can also be seen with infection or chronic inflammation of the surface of the tongue. Certain oral infections, notably Candida yeast infections (known as oral thrush), are characterized by a white tongue. Inflammation and whitening of the tongue can also occur due to dryness or environmental irritants such as smoking. Inflammation of the tongue is known as glossitis. Some white patches on the tongue, known as leukoplakia, can be precancerous lesions.

Main Articles on White Tongue

Causes of White Tongue

Other Causes of White Tongue

Examples of Medications for White Tongue