What it is: A fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast.
What it looks like: Thick, white, cottage-cheese-like patches that can be scraped off, leaving red, sometimes bleeding areas underneath.
Who’s at risk:
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People who use inhaled corticosteroids (asthma inhalers)
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People with weakened immune systems
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People taking antibiotics
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People with diabetes
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Denture wearers
What to do: See your doctor or dentist. Antifungal medications can clear it up.
2. Dehydration or Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
What it is: Insufficient saliva production leads to a buildup of dead cells and bacteria on the tongue.
What it looks like: A thin, white coating that may be accompanied by dry lips, sticky saliva, and thirst.
What to do: Drink more water. Chew sugar-free gum. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. If dry mouth persists, talk to your doctor—it can be a side effect of medications or a sign of other conditions.
3. Leukoplakia
What it is: Thick, white patches that form on the tongue or inside the cheek. They cannot be scraped off.
What it looks like: Raised, white patches that are painless.
Who’s at risk: Most common in people who use tobacco (smoking or chewing). Can also be caused by chronic irritation.
Why it matters: While most leukoplakia patches are benign, some can be precancerous. A dentist should evaluate any persistent white patch that doesn’t scrape off.
4. Oral Lichen Planus
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