There are many possible causes for white tongue, and in some cases, it comes with an unpleasant odor and mouth dryness. To get rid of it, sometimes you just need to brush your teeth. But what should you do if that doesn’t help?
❗ This article is for informative purposes only and can’t replace the advice of a specialist.
What white tongue is
The white film may cover the entire tongue, part of it, or appear as spots. At the same time, an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth may appear. It looks as if there are small white hairs on the tongue’s surface. In fact, they are buds covered with organic particles, bacteria, and dead cells.
White plaque on the tongue (which can also be yellow) may appear for different reasons, like due to irritation or because of an infection. It usually disappears after several days. If the situation doesn’t change for several weeks, and it’s painful to eat and talk, it’s best to see a doctor.
It’s important to note that the plaque may not only be white. While a pink tongue is normal, a brown tongue means the person drinks too much coffee or tea. A yellow tongue means there’s something wrong with the liver, and a red tongue is a sign that the person lacks vitamin B.
Why the tongue becomes white
Usually, the tongue becomes white due to bacteria, leftover bits of food, or dead cells that get stuck in between the buds. Because of this, the buds may increase in size or become inflamed. This is how white spots on the tongue’s surface appear.
Sometimes, the plaque appears due to an illness. For example, the geographic tongue is also a condition where white spots appear on the tongue. It’s quite rare, and the causes are unknown, but the condition itself is often connected to eating foods that irritate the tongue. It may also be a reaction to stress, an illness, or hormonal changes.
Why white plaque appears on the tongue
There are some things that make the appearance of white plaque on the tongue more probable:
- Age
- Taking antibiotics (white-yellow plaque appearing when there’s a fungal infection in the mouth)
- A diet that’s lacking enough fruits, vegetables, vitamin B12, and iron
- A weak immune system
- Bad mouth hygiene
- Dental prosthetics or other objects that can damage the tongue
- Dehydration and mouth dryness
What piercings have to do with white tongue
Right after piercing the tongue, there might be some white film present. This happens because the number of bacteria on the tongue increases, and it’s normal. Antibacterial mouthwash will help you get rid of it. Plus, there might be a ring around the piercings, which is normal too, and it means the tissue is healing.
If the plaque appears due to an injury (including piercings), the healing should take around 1.5 weeks. You should avoid irritants, such as hot, spicy, or sour foods and drinks.
How to get rid of white tongue at home
- Practice good mouth hygiene.
- Drink enough water.
- Brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush.
- Use a mild fluoride toothpaste — one that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Use fluoride mouthwash.
- Brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove the white coating.
- Drink cold drinks through a straw.
- Avoid food and drinks that are spicy, salty, acidic, or very hot in temperature.
Who to talk to if you’re worried about your white tongue
- Your dentist can help you remove the white film from the tongue and prescribe medications if needed.
- Your GP can diagnose the tongue, prescribe you certain medications and determine if the white tongue is an indicator of a more serious issue.
What do you do about white tongue?
Preview photo credit Genusfotografen (genusfotografen.se) & Wikimedia Sverige (wikimedia.se) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, Martanopue / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Nataliya Kuznetsova: Redefining What It Means to Be a Female Bodybuilder
Keeping our bodies in shape is essential for both physical and mental well-being. For many, this involves daily activities like walking or light exercise. However, for 33-year-old Nataliya Kuznetsova, staying in shape is an entirely different story.
Nataliya, a professional Russian bodybuilder, holds world records in arm lifting, bench pressing, and deadlifting. Her impressive physique is a testament to her dedication and hard work, making it easy to see how she earned her titles.
While opinions on appearance differ, it’s crucial to respect individual choices. People should never be ridiculed for how they look. How someone chooses to present themselves is their personal decision, and it’s worth celebrating individuality and diversity.
A Bodybuilder’s Journey
Born Nataliya Trukhina on July 1, 1991, in Chita, southeast Siberia, Russia, Nataliya grew up as an active child with a passion for physical training and combat sports. At 14, she began her bodybuilding journey, hitting the gym daily under the guidance of her coach, Alexei Ivanov. Initially, her goal wasn’t to build massive muscles but to gain strength.
Despite her modest beginnings at 80 pounds, Nataliya rapidly progressed. By the time she was 17, she weighed 150 pounds and could bench press 220 pounds. Over the years, her dedication paid off as she won numerous championships and set multiple records.
Championship Success
Nataliya’s achievements include winning the 2014 Cup of Eurasia and the 2015 Eastern Europe Cup (GPA). She is nicknamed the “World’s Most Muscular Woman” and holds records for bench pressing over 374 pounds and deadlifting 530 pounds. Standing at 5’7” and weighing over 220 pounds during the offseason, she is a remarkable force in the world of powerlifting.
Nataliya’s lifestyle revolves around constant improvement and strength-building. She shares her belief in perseverance on her social media, writing:
“It’s not about being perfect – it’s about showing up, putting in the effort, and getting the work done to achieve your vision. Every day is another opportunity to move forward.”
Beyond Bodybuilding
In 2013, Nataliya graduated from the Moscow State Academy of Physical Culture. She also performed in a Bolshoi Theatre production of Manon Lescaut. Today, she lives in Moscow with her husband, bodybuilder Vladislav Kuznetsov. The couple, who met online in 2009, married in 2015 and continue to support each other in their pursuits.
Nataliya’s journey wasn’t always easy. Early in her career, she struggled financially and often had to fund her training and competitions herself. However, her growing popularity on social media changed her fortunes. Today, she works with sponsors like Oxytropin and RPS Nutrition and has over one million Instagram followers.
Breaking Stereotypes
Despite her fame, Nataliya faces criticism and hurtful comments about her appearance. She remains unfazed, stating:
“The classical standards and norms are long gone. Even the modeling industry is very different now. My best advisor is a mirror.”
Nataliya also appreciates her fans’ support, especially the compliments and encouragement she receives from followers worldwide.
A Bright Future
In 2017, Nataliya briefly stepped away from powerlifting but returned to compete in Moscow just a year and a half later. She has since focused on coaching, aiming to help others reach their potential.
Nataliya Kuznetsova’s journey is a story of perseverance, passion, and breaking barriers. Whether you agree with her choices or not, her dedication to pursuing her dreams is undeniably inspiring.
What’s your take on Nataliya’s life choices? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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