Who doesn’t want pearly white teeth, but what about your tongue? Well, a healthy tongue should be light pink with some white on the surface but it shouldn’t be entirely white or yellow. Not only is your tongue a sign of good oral health but can really add to the aesthetic! But as you get older, it often starts to look yellow or white due to a variety of factors, including poor oral care, smoking, genetics, and consuming caffeinated drinks like coffee and tea. So, in case you can’t visit your dentist, we have got you some best home remedies to get rid of your white tongue.

How to get rid of white tongue?

A white tongue is a sign that part or all of the top of your tongue has developed a thick, white covering of food particles, germs, and dead cells. This may result in discomfort, bad breath, a hairy tongue, and poor appearance of oral health. While having a white tongue does not necessarily indicate a serious health problem, it may indicate poor dental hygiene, which might eventually result in infection.

HealthShots spoke to Dr Nirali Patel, Smile Design Expert and Oral Implantologist FICOI, USA, to find out home remedies to remove a white, coated layer from the top of the tongue.

Dr Patel says, “A white tongue can be a common problem in some cases that people experience at some point in their lives. While there can be many causes of it, poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of it.

Here are 5 home remedies for white tongue

1. Saltwater rinse

One of the easiest and most effective home remedies for the white tongue is a saltwater rinse. To do this, mix a tablespoon of salt with a cup of warm water and swish the solution around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Salt has antiseptic properties that can help to kill the bacteria in your mouth and reduce the buildup of white film on your tongue.

2. Tongue scraper

Another simple and effective method for removing the white coating on your tongue is to use a tongue scraper. You can find tongue scrapers at most drugstores, and they are designed to gently remove the layer of bacteria and debris on your tongue. Simply place the scraper at the back of your tongue and gently pull it forward, rinsing it off between each stroke.

Also read: Tongue scraping can drastically change your health! Here are 6 reasons why

3. Probiotics

Eating foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurt or kefir, can help to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. Probiotics can help to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and prevent the buildup of white film on your tongue.

4. Oil pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes before spitting it out. The oil acts as a natural cleanser, removing bacteria and debris from your mouth and reducing the build-up of white film on your tongue.

5. Baking soda

Baking soda is a natural remedy that can help to neutralize the acids in your mouth and reduce the buildup of bacteria on your tongue. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste, and use this to brush your tongue. Brush gently in a circular motion, focusing on the areas where the white film is most pronounced.

Follow these 5 preventive tips for a healthy tongue

1. Maintain good oral hygiene

The most effective way to prevent white tongue is to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to keep your mouth clean.

2. Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to a white tongue.

3. Avoid smoking

Smoking can cause a range of oral health problems, including white tongue. Quitting smoking can help to reduce the buildup of bacteria in your mouth and improve your overall oral health.

4. Limit alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol can also contribute to white tongue and other oral health problems. Try to limit your alcohol consumption, or avoid it altogether if possible.

Also read: Your tongue won’t lie! Know what its colour can say about your health

5. Eat a healthy diet

Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid sugary and processed foods that can contribute to oral health problems. A healthy diet can help to promote good oral health and prevent the buildup of bacteria on your tongue.

Takeaway

White tongue can be an unpleasant and unsightly condition, but it is generally harmless and can be easily treated with home remedies and preventive care. By following these simple tips, you can maintain good oral health and prevent the buildup of white film on your tongue. If your white tongue persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain or bleeding, it is important to see a healthcare professional for further evaluation.