Causes of Yellow Tongue and How to Get Rid of It

The tongue is an organ in the human body that performs a variety of essential functions. It is composed of a mass of muscles, some of which are responsible for taste, while others enable speech and aid in swallowing.

The tongue also helps in the process of digestion by pushing food around the mouth and breaking it down into smaller particles before it passes through the throat and into the stomach. The tongue is also important for maintaining proper dental hygiene as it helps to remove food particles and other debris from between the teeth.

Additionally, it plays a role in social interaction, allowing us to express ourselves through facial expressions and by forming words when we speak. Without our tongues, communication would be impossible.

Just like any other organ in the human body, the tongue can be susceptible to infection, diseases and conditions like the yellow tongue.

What is the yellow tongue?

Most people have never heard of the yellow tongue before but it is a real condition that can affect anyone. Yellow Tongue is a medical term used to describe the abnormal accumulation of bacteria on the surface of the tongue.

Causes of Yellow Tongue

A yellow tongue is not usually a cause for alarm, but it can be a sign of a problem. Several things can cause your tongue to turn yellow, and most of them are not serious. However, if you notice other symptoms along with a yellow tongue, you should see a doctor right away.

One of the most common causes of a yellow tongue is dehydration. When you’re dehydrated, your body starts to conserve water by reducing the production of saliva. Saliva is what keeps your mouth clean and free of bacteria, so without it, bacteria can grow and thrive on your tongue. This will make your tongue look yellow or even greenish-white.

Other causes of a yellow tongue include smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and eating foods that are high in sulphur. Smoking and drinking alcohol can both cause the tissues in your mouth to become dry and irritated. This will make your tongue look red and inflamed, which can also lead to a build-up of bacteria.

Foods that are high in sulphur can also cause bad breath as well as a yellow tongue. Sulphur-containing compounds found in these foods can interact with the proteins on the surface of your tongue to create an orange or brown discolouration.

Symptoms of Yellow Tongue:

• The tongue becomes discoloured, usually yellow or green
• The surface of the tongue may be bumpy or covered in lesions
• The taste buds may become dull or disappear altogether
• Bad breath may develop
• The mouth may feel dry and uncomfortable

10 Ways to Prevent Yellow Tongue

1. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your tongue along with your teeth twice a day using a soft toothbrush and a mild, fluoride toothpaste to remove bacteria and debris that can cause yellowing.
2. Scrape your tongue gently each morning using a tongue scraper specifically made for the purpose to help remove any excess food particles and built-up bacteria.
3. Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill off germs and reduce the intensity of bad breath.
4. Quit smoking or using tobacco products as they can contribute to discolouration and yellowing of the tongue.
5. Eat a healthy diet that favours fruits and vegetables over processed foods as these tend to be easier on the teeth and tongue.
6. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as it helps rinse away particles and bacteria in the mouth that can cause discolouration.
7. Avoid excessive consumption of foods or drinks that are highly acidic or contain artificial colourings and dyes as these can stain the tongue.
8. See your dentist or doctor for professional cleaning if you are still having difficulties getting rid of the yellowing on the tongue after trying home remedies. The doctor may prescribe a special mouthwash or other treatments to help with discolouration.
9. Make sure to follow the instructions of your doctor or dentist for any treatments prescribed and continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. This will help ensure that yellowing on the tongue is reduced and kept at bay.
10. Make sure you get a routine checkup with your dentist every six months, as they can detect any underlying issues that may be causing discolouration and yellowing of the tongue. The dentist may also be able to provide further advice on how to keep your tongue healthy and stain-free.

No matter the cause, it’s important to consider the above-mentioned ways to help prevent yellow tongue. If you have any other concerns or symptoms related to your tongue, it’s best to speak with an oral health expert.

Ultimately, the yellow tongue can be prevented and treated. Taking care of your oral hygiene will help you keep your tongue healthy and looking its best while ensuring fresh breath all the time.

Consult your dentist in South Morang for yellow tongue and other dental issues like teeth alignment brace and dental whitening!