Understanding why there is a white coating on your tongue is essential for maintaining oral health. Dr. Eric Berg, a medical doctor and renowned author, sheds light on this common issue. The white coating is often caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called candida, which typically resides in the mouth without causing problems when kept in check.
Excessive candida can lead to oral thrush, characterized by creamy white patches or spots on the tongue, inner cheeks, or other areas in the mouth. Dr. Berg emphasizes that an abundance of this coating may indicate overconsumption of sugar, which fuels the growth of candida. Merely brushing it off is ineffective as the root cause lies in the dietary imbalance.
The Mayo Clinic notes that while oral thrush can affect individuals of all ages, it is more prevalent in infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the individual’s overall health and immune function. According to the NHS, a white tongue can also result from conditions such as anaemia, scarlet fever, lichen planus, leukoplakia, geographic tongue, or mouth ulcers.
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A sore or white tongue is typically not a cause for alarm, but seeking medical advice is recommended if concerns arise. Management strategies include using a soft toothbrush, tongue scraping, avoiding certain toothpaste ingredients, and making dietary adjustments such as reducing sugar intake.
Understanding the underlying causes of a white-coated tongue is crucial for effective management and maintenance of oral health.