What does a white spot on the side of your tongue mean?

Chances are, the white spot or patch on your tongue will go away on its own. But if they linger, it’s worth visiting a dental professional to have them checked out. Oral thrush, canker sores, and leukoplakia are the most common causes of white spots on the tongue.

How do you get rid of white spots on the side of your tongue?

This symptom often clears up on its own. You may be able to remove the white coating from your tongue by gently brushing it with a soft toothbrush. Or softly run a tongue scraper across your tongue. Drinking lots of water can also help flush bacteria and debris out of your mouth.

Why do I have spots on the side of my tongue?

Tongue bumps are common, and there are many possible causes, including injuries, allergies, and infections. Although tongue bumps can feel strange and may cause concern, they are usually harmless. Some people with bumps on their tongue may worry about cancer, but oral cancers are relatively rare.

Is it normal to have white on side of tongue?

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.

What does a white tongue say about your health?

A white tongue, or white spots on your tongue, could be an indication of: Oral thrush – a yeast infection that develops inside the mouth.

What causes white patches covering the tongue?

White Tongue Causes Dehydration or dry mouth: Dry mouth is also called xerostomia. Oral thrush: A thick and white-coated tongue may indicate the presence of Candida. Poor oral hygiene: Oral hygiene is very important.

Are white spots on my Tongue a concern?

Your whole tongue might be white, or you could just have white spots or patches on your tongue. A white tongue is usually nothing to worry about. But on rare occasions, this symptom can warn of a more serious condition like an infection or early cancer .

What causes someone’s tongue to be white?

Dehydration is the most common cause of white tongue. Also known as dry mouth, this condition occurs when there is a decrease of saliva production by the salivary glands Poor oral hygiene is an easily preventable cause of white tongue. Fever occurs when your body temperature rises and is often accompanied by a white tongue.

What causes persistent white spots in the mouth?

Causes of White Spots in Mouth Fungal Infection. One of the most common causes of having white spots in the mouth is a possible fungal infection and Candida albicans can be one of the major culprits. Leukoplakia. Leukoplakia can be a serious cause of white spots in the mouth as this is considered precancerous. Lichen Planus.