White Tongue: Find Out What Causes It and How to Fix It

Failure to clean the tongue when brushing contributes to the accumulation of bacteria that leave the white area.

A whitish tongue is a sign that could be related to some problems, including tongue coating or white tongue. The condition is the result of debris and bacteria building up on the surface of the tongue when it is not cleaned properly.

Dentist Fabiana Cavallini Magalhães, from the Clínica Omint Odonto e Estética, explains that the presence of food residues in the oral cavity creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrivewhich can cause tooth decay or even periodontitis.

However, the problem can get even worse when the bacterial plaque turns into tartar. This is a layer of hardened dirt that builds up on the teeth and can only be removed at the dentist’s office.

The tongue must also be clean

In addition to being considered an organ, the tongue is one of the most important muscles in the human body, performing vital functions such as chewing, swallowing, flavor perception, and speech.

To prevent the tongue from turning white, good oral hygiene habits are essential. “Brushing your teeth after meals is essential, but we cannot forget about cleaning the tongue for complete hygiene,” Fabiana emphasizes.

The specialist highlights the variety of tongue scrapers available on the market. “The copper model is the most recommended for its antibacterial, hygienic and durable properties,” he comments.

Scraping should be done from the bottom to the tip of the tongue, repeating a few times, and then rinsing with water. This step can be done last, after flossing and brushing your teeth. It is worth remembering that, like a toothbrush, a scraper is a personal hygiene item and should not be shared.

Consult a dentist

Data from the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), show that 55% of Brazilians do not go to the dentist once a year, as recommended by professionals in the sector.

The dentist reminds us, however, that it is essential to carry out an annual evaluation so that the specialist can monitor the patient’s oral health and define the appropriate interval for subsequent visits.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.