A white tongue usually happens when bacteria, food debris, and dead cells build up between the tiny bumps on the tongue, creating a pale film. It’s common after a night of mouth-breathing, with dry mouth, or when oral hygiene slips, and it often improves with gentle tongue cleaning and better hydration.
Other causes include oral thrush (a yeast infection that leaves wipeable white patches), irritated or enlarged papillae, and, less often, conditions like leukoplakia or lichen planus that need a dentist or doctor to assess. Dry mouth can make the coating thicker and contribute to bad breath, so sipping water and addressing dryness can help.
Practical steps include brushing your teeth, gently cleaning the tongue daily, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol intake, and replacing old toothbrushes regularly.
If you experience pain, trouble swallowing, bleeding, a hard patch that won’t scrape off, or the coating lasts longer than two weeks, it is important to see a dentist or ENT specialist. Avoid self-medicating with antifungals unless prescribed, and keep regular dental checkups to prevent complications.