White Tongue
A white tongue is a symptom characterized by a thick white film on your tongue. Depending on different cases, the white coating can appear on the entire or a part of the tongue. Besides, it is also possible to develop a white tongue condition suddenly or have it built up gradually over time.
The white tongue is believed as a result of bad oral hygiene. When bacteria, fungi, dead cells, or food debris get stuck between the papillae, these tiny bumps will become irritated and begin to swollen. Generally speaking, the white tongue is harmless and goes away in a few weeks. Using a mouthwash can help ease the symptom. However, a long-term white tongue can indicate some underlying diseases. These include:
- Leukoplakia
- Oral lichen planus
- Geographic tongue
- Oral thrush
- Syphilis
Therefore, visiting a doctor is advisable when you have a long-term white tongue with a painful tongue and difficulty swallowing. [2]