Janira Sánchez, orthodontist: "Do you have a white tongue and don't know why?"

Orthodontist Janira Sánchez has explained in a video the most common reasons why many people discover a whitish coating on their tongue when they look in the mirror.

Although it may seem like an unimportant detail, this sign can reveal anything from a lack of hygiene to an oral health problem that requires professional attention.

Three common causes of white tongue

Sánchez points out that the most common cause is usually " the accumulation of bacteria and food debris ." This occurs when the tongue is not properly cleaned during oral hygiene routines . The expert recommends incorporating a simple daily step: "After brushing your teeth, use a tongue scraper ." This tool, still underutilized, helps remove the bacterial film that stains the surface of the tongue and improves breath.

The second cause is related to hydration . According to the orthodontist, “ not drinking enough water can make the tongue appear whiter .” Dryness promotes the accumulation of dead cells and bacteria, which contributes to that pale or whitish tone. Drinking more fluids throughout the day not only improves oral health but also overall health.

When is a white tongue a sign of a problem?

In some cases, the appearance of the tongue can be a warning sign . “If, in addition to having a white tongue, it also has a cottony appearance , you may have a fungal infection ,” warns Sánchez. In that situation, he recommends seeing a dentist , since “ specific treatment will be necessary to eliminate it.”

This type of condition, known as oral candidiasis , can be caused by several factors, including a weakened immune system , antibiotic use, or poor oral hygiene. While it is not usually serious, it requires medical attention to prevent it from worsening.

The importance of observing language

The tongue can reflect overall and oral health . That's why the specialist emphasizes the importance of observing its appearance and maintaining proper hygiene . Caring for it not only improves appearance but also helps prevent bad breath and potential infections.

Thus, something as commonplace as looking at the color of the tongue can be the first step in detecting an imbalance and taking better care of oral health .