Why is my tongue kinda white

Everyone has normal, unhealthy bacteria in their systems, added Banka. When a person is healthy, the immune system can fight it off. However, when the immune system is not working properly, the person may not be able to fight off bacteria that would otherwise be benign. Beneath the lesions is a red inflamed base, which is the source of the pain. The same goes for extreme use of throat lozenges. IE 11 is not supported. White tongue is the result of an overgrowth and swelling of the fingerlike projections papillae on the surface of your tongue.

The appearance of a white coating is caused by debris, bacteria and dead cells getting lodged between the enlarged and sometimes inflamed papillae. Examples of conditions associated with white patches or other discolorations of your tongue include:. Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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Phone November 29, By Prairie Dental Group It may surprise you to learn that we can tell a lot about your overall health from just looking at your mouth. Healthy tongues are light pink with some white on the surface. Red Red or bright red tongues can be caused by many things, such as inflammation, infection, a blood disease, a heart condition, or a vitamin B12 deficiency.

Yellow A yellow coating on the tongue can develop due to discoloration or a buildup of bacteria from poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, alcohol use, heavy consumption of coffee or black tea, dry mouth, inflammation of the stomach lining, a weakened immune system, and using oral products with thymol, menthol, witch hazel, peroxides, eucalyptus, and alcohol.

Blue This could indicate a lack of oxygen caused by respiratory issues, kidney disease, or a blood disorder.