Why do you have a white tongue? Oral hygiene mistakes to avoid
RITUAL & BEAUTY

Why do you have a white tongue? Oral hygiene mistakes to avoid

Published on February 07, 2025

The tongue is often considered an indicator of overall health. In approaches such as traditional Chinese medicine, its observation can provide valuable clues about the general state of our body, including the functioning of our internal organs and the balance of our digestive system. 

A healthy tongue has a uniform pink color, a supple texture, and a slight moisture content. Any noticeable changes—such as a whitish coating, cracks, discoloration, or swelling—can signal underlying issues, such as a nutritional imbalance or a buildup of toxins.

Causes of white tongue

1. Poor oral hygiene
Irregular brushing or neglecting to clean the tongue allows food debris, dead cells and bacteria to build up, which can give the tongue a whitish appearance.

2. Dehydration
Insufficient water intake can reduce saliva production, which is essential for naturally cleaning the mouth. This dry mouth promotes the proliferation of bacteria and the appearance of a white coating on the tongue.

3. Tobacco and alcohol consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption irritate the mucous membranes and decrease salivation, creating an environment conducive to the accumulation of deposits on the tongue.

Mistakes to avoid to avoid having a white tongue

1. Ignoring tongue cleaning
The tongue is often overlooked in hygiene routines. Yet, it harbors a large amount of bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and other oral problems. Regular use of a tongue scraper is recommended; our favorite is this one from The Smilist!

2. Choosing unsuitable products
Some toothpastes and mouthwashes containing alcohol can dry out your mouth and disrupt the natural balance of your oral microbiota. Choose gentle products formulated to respect the balance of your oral flora, like the care rituals from The Smilist!

3. Brushing too quickly or unevenly
Insufficient brushing does not adequately remove plaque, increasing the risk of plaque buildup on the tongue.

Our tips for avoiding a white tongue

1. Adopt a complete routine: We recommend including tongue cleaning in your daily ritual. Using a tongue scraper is life-changing, improving oral hygiene, fresh breath, and overall well-being first thing in the morning.

2. Use specific products: Serums exist to eliminate bad bacteria lodged on the tongue, for example, The Smilist Intense Purifying Tongue Serum is formulated to purify the tongue in depth, helping to eliminate odor molecules and freshen breath!

3. Maintain good hydration: Drink enough water throughout the day to ensure optimal saliva production and prevent dry mouth.

4. Avoid irritants: Reduce or stop smoking and drinking alcohol, which can irritate the tongue and promote the appearance of whitish deposits.

By adopting these best practices and avoiding common oral hygiene mistakes, you will help maintain a healthy tongue and fresh breath! Remember, your mouth is the gateway to your health, so take care of it!

Christiane, Dentist and Co-founder of The Smilist