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DO YOU HAVE PAINFUL WHITE SPOTS ON YOUR TONGUE OR MOUTH IN SUMMERLIN?

painful white spots in mouth
Marianne Cohan  May 3, 2022
DO YOU HAVE PAINFUL WHITE SPOTS ON YOUR TONGUE OR MOUTH IN SUMMERLIN? PEOPLE ASK: Have white spots at the back of your tongue? Have a white dot on your tongue? Do you have white patches on your mouth that you're not sure what's causing them? Learn about the origins, symptoms, and treatment options for […]
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WHAT ARE WHITE SPOTS ON TONGUE? SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTAL CARE OFFICE

white spots
Marianne Cohan  March 5, 2022
WHAT ARE WHITE SPOTS ON TONGUE? SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTAL CARE OFFICE White spots on the tongue are usually not indicative of anything dangerous. Knowing the underlying cause, on the other hand, can assist you in determining the most appropriate course of action. Is it thrush, canker sores, or leukoplakia that you have? A Covid […]
Read More

TREATMENT OF A WHITE TONGUE AT YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN !

white tongue
Marianne Cohan  February 6, 2022
APPROPRIATE CARE AND TREATMENT OF YOUR WHITE TONGUE AT YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN! What is the treatment for a white tongue? Will I regain my normal tongue appearance?  Your white tongue may not require treatment. It should usually go away on its own after a few weeks. However, if it lasts longer than that […]
Read More

WHITE TONGUE, WHY IS MY TONGUE WHITE ? CHECK WITH THE BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN

white tongue
Marianne Cohan  February 6, 2022
WHITE TONGUE, WHY IS MY TONGUE WHITE? CHECK WITH THE BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN Do you have a white tongue? YOU NEED TO SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTIST TO HAVE IT CHECKED White tongue is a symptom in which part, or all of your tongue develops a thick white covering. Bad breath, a hairy tongue, and […]
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DO YOU HAVE PAINFUL WHITE SPOTS ON YOUR TONGUE OR MOUTH IN SUMMERLIN?

May 3, 2022

DO YOU HAVE PAINFUL WHITE SPOTS ON YOUR TONGUE OR MOUTH IN SUMMERLIN?

mouth

PEOPLE ASK:

  • Have white spots at the back of your tongue?
  • Have a white dot on your tongue?
  • Do you have white patches on your mouth that you're not sure what's causing them?
  • Learn about the origins, symptoms, and treatment options for your white spot problem.

You may be experiencing discomfort on the inside of your mouth. Do you have painful white spots on the inside of your mouth? There are a variety of factors that contribute to these bothersome white patches. Although these white spots may disappear on their own if left untreated, they may be indicative of a more serious health problem that may require treatment by either your doctor or dental professional. Continue reading if you have observed any of the symptoms listed above and want to learn how to bring them under control.

Identifying the white areas in your mouth

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT !

Canker sores and cold sores are two types of sores.

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are sometimes mistaken for cold sores, despite the fact that they are entirely distinct. Essentially, a canker sore is an ulcer that forms on the interior of the mouth. A cold sore is a viral illness that presents as a tiny fluid-filled blister on the exterior of the mouth, generally the lips. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus. A cold sore, in contrast to a canker sore, is caused by the herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and can be readily disseminated if left untreated for a long period of time. A canker sore is more of an unpleasant inconvenience that can be ignored for a short period of time.

Canker sores are one of the most prevalent types of mouth sores that people experience. Although most people who have canker sores do so only occasionally, between 20 percent to 30 percent of those who do have canker sores endure repeated outbreaks. Occasionally, you may notice that a canker sore appears three or four times a year and lasts for around one week. Complex canker sores are bigger and more painful than simple canker sores, and they can continue for up to a month. IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS IT IS WISE TO CALL YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTAL OFFICE!!

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Canker Sores Have a Variety of Causes

A canker sore can be caused by a variety of factors,

  1. hormonal fluctuations
  2. stress
  3. physical oral damage.
  4. caused by certain meals, such as citrus fruits.
  5. Vitamin shortages, such as those in vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, and zinc, might significantly exacerbate the condition in some cases.

Canker Sores Symptoms and Signs

Canker sores are little sores that develop on the soft tissues of the mouth and gums. They are round or oval in shape, with red rims and a white or somewhat yellow center, depending on the variety. You may experience a burning or tingling feeling prior to the commencement of the condition. Another symptom is a stinging discomfort, which is particularly noticeable when you speak or eat.

Canker Sores: What to Do If You Have Them

Using salt water or a baking soda and water mixture to rinse your mouth will aid in the treatment of canker sores. Alternatively, a tiny quantity of milk of magnesia can be applied straight to the wound. It is possible to repeat one of these approaches numerous times every day.

If your symptoms continue more than two weeks, worsen when you use home treatments, recur more than once a year, or are severe, you should schedule an appointment with your Summerlin Dental office dentist. It is important to get medical assistance if you have canker sores along with other symptoms such as a headache, fever, diarrhea, or a skin rash. Symptomatic relief, inflammation reduction, and prevention of secondary consequences, such as bacterial infection, are the goals of canker sore treatment at your Summerlin Dental Office. The fact that you have ulcers now does not ensure that you will not acquire them in the future.

A steroid mouth rinse, anesthetics, or antibiotics to minimize inflammatory irritation may be administered to treat the infection and relieve pain, depending on the severity.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT !

Canker Sores Treatment and Prevention

Canker sores, in general, are difficult to foresee and to avoid developing. Fortunately, once they've appeared, there are steps that can be taken to prevent the situation from getting worse. Try to keep your canker sores from coming into touch with anything. Make sure you don't constantly brush them with your tongue and be cautious when you clean your teeth. Foods and beverages that are spicy, fiery, or acidic should be avoided. Also, avoid eating foods with sharp edges, such as chips.

Cold sores are a type of sore.

Leukoplakia

The condition of leukoplakia should be addressed carefully. While the vast majority of leukoplakia cases are noncancerous, there are some that are precancerous in nature.

The causes of leukoplakia are as follows:

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  1. Chewing tobacco and smoking for an extended period of time
  2. Poorly fitted dentures,
  3. HIV or AIDS
  4. sun exposure to the lips has been implicated as potential causes of leukoplakia in the past.
  5. In rare instances, oral cancer and leukoplakia might be linked together as well.

Manifestations of Leukoplakia

The most common symptom of leukoplakia is the presence of thick, white spots in your mouth that are difficult to remove. These patches can be flat or irregularly shaped, and they tend to harden and thicken with time. If the condition is severe, you may suffer slight discomfort when swallowing food. It is possible to develop red lesions (erythroplakia). Red lesions on the leukoplakia are more likely to be malignant or precancerous than white lesions.

Treatments for Leukoplakia are available.

Anyone who has been diagnosed with leukoplakia should discontinue using tobacco products soon after receiving the diagnosis. Depending on whether your leukoplakia is caused by ill-fitting dentures, a rough tooth, or an uneven filling surface, a dentist may be able to correct the problem for you easily. If your leukoplakia is caused by a compromised immune system, you may be offered antiviral drugs or topical therapies to help alleviate the symptoms of your condition.

It is critical that your Summerlin dentist or doctor do a biopsy on your leukoplakia in order to rule out the possibility of malignancy. It will be removed by oral surgery if it is deemed necessary.

Preventing Leukoplakia is important.

Once you have experienced leukoplakia, it is possible that it may recur. We recommend that you schedule a follow-up consultation with your physician and dentist.

One of the most effective strategies to avoid leukoplakia is to stop using tobacco and smoking altogether. Practicing basic dental hygiene can go a long way toward preventing leukoplakia from developing. Another suggestion is to limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and consume foods that are high in antioxidants.

Oral lichen planus is a kind of lichen that grows on the tongue.

Oral lichen planus is an autoimmune illness that manifests itself as inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. However, although lichen planus can affect any mucosa lining, such as the esophagus or vaginal mucosa, it is more usually found in the oral cavity. Oral lichen plus affects just 2% of the population (with the majority of cases occurring in elderly women).

Oral lichen planus is caused by a variety of factors.

Some specialists believe that genetics and immunology may have a role in the development of the disease. Others feel that lichen planus is an autoimmune illness or a cell-mediated immune response, rather than a skin condition. There has been evidence of a link between oral lichen planus and the use of beta-blockers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines in the past.

Oral lichen planus is characterized by a number of symptoms

Oral lichen planus is characterized by the formation of white, lacy patches. Additionally, searing discomfort, bleeding gums while eating or cleaning teeth, redness, and open sores are also common signs of this condition. A sensitivity to acidic or spicy foods is another possibility.

Treatments for lichen planus of the mouth

Although there is currently no treatment for oral lichen planus, the symptoms can be controlled with medication. In order to minimize inflammation, a dentist or doctor may give topical, oral, or injectable corticosteroid medications. In addition, numbing gels may be provided to assist alleviate any discomfort.

Aside from that, certain individuals may be prescribed drugs to suppress or regulate their immune systems. Keep in mind that oral lichen planus might increase your risk of secondary infections, nutritional deficits, and mouth cancer, among other complications. For people who suffer from oral lichen planus, it is extremely important to undergo frequent examinations.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT !

Preventing oral lichen planus is important.

Although oral lichen planus cannot be completely avoided, you may reduce your chances of acquiring it by eating a nutritious diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and by reducing your intake of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes.

Oral Thrush is a yeast infection that affects the mouth.

Everyone has a little bit of candida fungus in their lips, digestive systems, and skin, and it is not harmful. Other bacteria and microorganisms are responsible for keeping these at healthy levels. However, if the balance is thrown off, you might get oral thrush, which is caused by the fungus Candida overgrowing in your mouth.

Oral Thrush Is Caused By a Number of Factors

There are a variety of factors that might contribute to oral thrush (a candida overgrowth), including drugs such as antibiotics, birth control pills, and corticosteroids. If you have cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, dry mouth, or are pregnant, you are more likely to get oral thrush than the average person.

Cigarette smoking, using dentures that aren't correctly fitted, nursing an infected infant or having poor dental hygiene can all contribute to candida overgrowth.

Oral Thrush Signs and Symptoms

A white sore on the tongue that is slightly elevated and has a cottage cheese look is indicative of oral thrush.

Typically, the sores form on the tongue or inside of the cheeks, but they can also appear on the gums, tonsils, roof of the mouth, or back of the throat in rare instances.

If you have oral thrush, you may have a cotton-like sensation in your mouth. When it comes to the corners of your mouth, it can lead to irritation, soreness, loss of taste, redness, and cracking or bleeding. If you detect any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your Summerlin Dental dentist or family doctor right away.

Treatments for Thrush in the Mouth

Gargling with salt water, stopping or reducing cigarette use, restricting sugar intake, and using an antibiotic mouthwash are all remedies that can help you combat oral thrush and keep it away. A prescription for antifungal medicine may also be issued by your dentist or doctor.

Oral thrush may be an indication of another medical condition; thus, your dentist may urge that you consult with a doctor about any underlying health concerns that may be present.

Preventing Thrush in the Mouth

The most effective method of preventing oral thrush is through good oral hygiene. You should be seeing your Summerlin Dental Solutions dentist at least every 6 months

If you have dentures, make sure to clean them every day as well as visit the dentist on a regular basis to keep your teeth in good condition. If you take a corticosteroid inhaler, make sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly after using the drug. Yeast infections in the vaginal area should be treated as soon as possible. Maintain stable blood sugar levels if you have diabetes and limit your sugar intake if you do not have diabetes.

Are you concerned about white patches?

Do you want to know what is causing the white patches on your tongue and in your mouth once and for all? Summerlin Dental Solutions can help you identify at your issues and find a solution.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT !

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GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN

Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.

With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning.  Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens.  She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.

Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!

WHAT ARE WHITE SPOTS ON TONGUE? SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTAL CARE OFFICE

March 5, 2022

WHAT ARE WHITE SPOTS ON TONGUE?

SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTAL CARE OFFICE

white

White spots on the tongue are usually not indicative of anything dangerous. Knowing the underlying cause, on the other hand, can assist you in determining the most appropriate course of action. Is it thrush, canker sores, or leukoplakia that you have? A Covid symptom, according to one specialist, could be an indication of another issue. Please see your Summerlin Dental care office if you have concerns.

If you notice a white area on the inside of your mouth, it's most likely due to an infection called oral thrush. But, it's especially important if you've recently contracted Covid or received a vaccination. Smoking, antibiotics, diabetes, and anemia are a few more potential factors.

People should always be made aware of the potential new coronavirus symptoms as soon as possible.

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ORAL THRUSH

Oral thrush arises when the immune system of the body is compromised, and it can be alarming because it can cause a loss of taste, as well as cracked lips and a dry mouth, in some cases. It is usually not dangerous and may be cleared up very quickly by scraping or brushing the tongue when brushing your teeth. Oral thrush is one of the most common causes of white patches on the tongue, but canker sores, which are frequently inflamed and more painful than oral thrush, are another possibility. They are usually caused by a virus or a weakened immune system, and they are generally treated with a prescription gel.

According to an expert, white patches on your tongue could be an indication of Covid or an adverse vaccination effect.

Q: What could be causing the white spots on your tongue, and what should you do about it?

A: One of the rarer causes is leukoplakia, which is characterized by thick white or grey patches on the cheeks, gums, and bottom of the mouth, as well as on the tongue. Sufferers are more likely to be smokers or abusers of alcohol, and it is believed that once contracted, the virus will remain dormant with occasional flare-ups throughout your life. Your Summerlin Dental care office can alleviate your concerns.

It is usually beneficial to take a vacation from smoking and drinking to help clear up leukoplakia.

The white spots on the tongue can be characterized in three ways:

  1. The topography of the tongue

Topography refers to enlarged (taste) buds/papillae on the tongue. This could indicate a hormonal imbalance, with pale or transparent skin indicating a deficit and red skin indicating heat or inflammation.

  1. A coated tongue

Is there a region of porridge-like coating on the tongue that is restricted to a certain part of the tongue?

Dryness is always considered when there are white spots/patches that could be "candida" or "thrush."

This can occur as a result of illness or antibiotic use, which Indicates a depleted immune system and the loss of the body's natural defenses against pathogens, such as good bacteria in the gut. The presence of a white coating on the upper region of the tongue could indicate bronchitis or other phlegm-producing disorders

According to an expert, white patches on your tongue could also be a potential indication of Covid or a vaccination adverse effect.

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White patches on your tongue: White patches on your tongue are generally a sign of thrush.

tongue

"A geographic tongue is comprised of areas with white or somewhat yellow fur, as well as other areas where the tongue fur has peeled away." This would imply more chronic situations of heat and/or inadequacy of the digestive system, as well as other health concerns," says your Summerlin Dental office.

  1. A difference in color

Is this white spot/area on the screen indeed white? Or does it have a tiny yellow tint to it? White can signify excessive cold and yellow represents excessive heat.

In fact, the state of your dental health reveals more about your overall health than you might realize.

There is a close association between the health of the tongue and the health of the mouth and general health. Dentists are frequently able to counsel their patients about potential difficulties before they have the opportunity to discuss them with their physician.

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Canker sores, which appear as white spots on your tongue, and can be a type of infection.

Because the incidence of mouth cancer has climbed by over 60% in the previous decade, it's critical to understand what a healthy tongue looks like and to be alert to any changes. A healthy tongue is pink in color and has a somewhat rough texture on the surface of the tongue.

"During your routine dental check-ups, your Summerlin Dental office will look for indicators of oral cancer. Oral cancer can manifest itself as white, pale, or red patches, as well as spots or tumors, on the tongue. Upon discovering this, your Summerlin dentist will ask you some questions about your symptoms and medical history. If they have any concerns, they will recommend that you see a general practitioner or doctor who specializes in oral cancer."

Some people, develop a white coating across the tongue as a result of a buildup of bacteria, food waste, and dead cells on their tongues. It can also be yellow in color, which is caused by nicotine, tea, or coffee stains.

Everyone knows that we should brush our teeth twice a day, but it is equally necessary to brush our tongues after each cleaning of our teeth.

In the human mouth, the tongue is home to many germs. It is critical to maintain the health of your tongue in order to prevent bacteria from moving to your teeth and gums, causing damage and resulting in foul breath. Don't forget to clean your tongue as well. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and don't forget to brush your tongue.

If a white spot in your mouth has not been resolved within ten days, you should go to your Summerlin Dental office to be examined in order to rule out any other potentially serious conditions.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!

GET TO KNOW YOUR DENTIST

Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.

With an emphasis on cosmetic, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning.  Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all of the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens.  She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.

Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

TREATMENT OF A WHITE TONGUE AT YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN !

February 6, 2022

APPROPRIATE CARE AND TREATMENT OF YOUR WHITE TONGUE AT YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN!

IMG_9951.jpgWHITE-TONGUE-300x200

What is the treatment for a white tongue?

Will I regain my normal tongue appearance?

 Your white tongue may not require treatment. It should usually go away on its own after a few weeks. However, if it lasts longer than that or if you wish to get rid of it sooner, you should seek treatment at your Summerlin Dentist. The following are some popular treatments for white tongue symptoms:

Hairy tongue:

Your Summerlin Dentist is unlikely to treat your hairy tongue immediately. Instead, they'll concentrate on restoring your immune system's health. Antiviral drugs such as valacyclovir or famciclovir may be prescribed in rare circumstances. Alternatively, they may apply a therapy directly to your white patch (such as podophyllin resin or retinoic acid).

Tongue rash:

A tongue rash should not require treatment at your Summerlin Dentist (oral lichen planus). However, it can sometimes stay in your mouth for years. Symptoms like burning or sore gums can be relieved with steroidal mouthwashes (steroid pills dissolved in water) and steroid sprays, which your healthcare professional can prescribe.

mouth fungus (oral thrush),

Your Summerlin Dental professional will prescribe antifungal drugs like Diflucan. These can be taken as pills or applied as gels or liquids to the patches within your mouth. For one or two weeks, you'll probably require many applications every day.

White patches:

There are no unique therapies available if you have many white patches on your tongue (called geographic tongue because it looks like a map outline). Any meal or drink that makes you feel nauseous should be avoided. Topical treatments for oral fungus can provide some relief from whatever discomfort you're experiencing.

What can I do to treat white tongue at home?

White tongue is usually simple to treat. The treatment for a white tongue produced by a buildup of debris in the mouth is to practice good dental hygiene on a regular basis. If it does not resolve you should see your Summerlin Dentist

White tongue can be treated at your Summerlin Dental office in a variety of methods, including:

  • Using a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth.
  • Using a fluoride toothpaste that does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (a detergent) as a component.
  • Fluoride mouthwash is being used. If your child has a white tongue, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal mouthwash that you can use to swab his or her tongue.
  • To remove the white coating, brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper. If you don't have a tongue scraper, a teaspoon will suffice.
  • When drinking cold beverages, you should use a straw.
  • Avoiding chemicals that can irritate your tongue, such as alcoholic mouthwashes and cigarettes. Also, stay away from spicy, salty, acidic, or extremely hot foods and beverages.

If you're having discomfort, take over-the-counter pain relievers for short term only.

What can I do to avoid having a white tongue?

You can't always avoid getting white tongue. However, regular oral hygiene can help you avoid this. Every six months, visit your Summerlin dentist for a checkup and tongue cleaning. Brush your teeth twice a day at the very least. Floss at least once a day and eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

If your Summerlin dentist says your white tongue symptoms are significant, you should consider giving up alcohol or tobacco (or using less of either). Make regular follow-up appointments with your Summerlin dentist or healthcare professional. This will keep your white patch from growing or becoming more serious.

Your healthcare practitioner can also help you determine whether you have a food or drink allergy, as well as which treatments are best for you.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONTACT A DOCTOR?

Is it necessary for me to see a doctor if I have a white tongue?

White tongue is usually innocuous and only lasts a few days. Depending on the severity of your white tongue symptoms, you may want to wait and see if it clears up on its own. If the only symptom you detect is a minor white tongue, you should be alright.

However, if your tongue hurts or itches, you should see us at Summerlin Dental Solutions for medical attention. It could be a symptom of a developing health problem, such as an infection or something more serious. When a white tongue isn't treated, it can spread to other parts of your mouth and body, causing serious infection.

If your white tongue persists after a few weeks, you should consult your doctor or Summerlin dentist. If your tongue hurts or you're having problems eating or speaking, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Your provider can assist you in resolving the issue. They can also assist you in determining whether you have a more serious condition. If you have a weakened immune system, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible with your Summerlin dentist.

If I (or my child) have white tongue, who should I see?

If your white tongue does not return to its usual color after a few weeks, you should contact your Summerlin dentist or healthcare practitioner. One or more healthcare specialists can assist you, including:

Dentist: A tongue scraper can be used by your dentist to clean your tongue. They may also be able to prescribe drugs to help you with your white tongue.

Doctor of General Practice: Your doctor can diagnose your white tongue, give drugs (if necessary), and inform you whether your symptoms indicate something more serious.

Summerlin Dental Solutions suggests:

It's critical to maintain good oral hygiene, so schedule frequent dentist appointments to catch any problems early. Although having a white tongue isn't normally harmful, you should contact your Summerlin Dentist or healthcare professional if your tongue (or even just its appearance) is bothering you or causing you pain. This allows them to detect any potential health issues early and treat you before they become serious.

Get to Know the Dentist

Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.

With an emphasis on cosmetic, complete makeovers and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning.  Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all of the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations and high-resolution pictures of proposed treatment on 55 inch screens.  She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.  Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

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WHITE TONGUE, WHY IS MY TONGUE WHITE ? CHECK WITH THE BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN

February 6, 2022

WHITE TONGUE, WHY IS MY TONGUE WHITE?

CHECK WITH THE BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN

IMG_9951.jpgWHITE-TONGUE-300x200

Do you have a white tongue?

YOU NEED TO SEE YOUR SUMMERLIN DENTIST TO HAVE IT CHECKED

White tongue is a symptom in which part, or all of your tongue develops a thick white covering. Bad breath, a hairy tongue, and discomfort are all possible side effects. Although a white tongue can be unsightly, it is usually harmless and only lasts a short time.

OVERVIEW

What is the meaning of white tongue?

When your tongue is coated in a thick white coating, it is known as a "white tongue." This coating might cover your entire tongue, the back section of your tongue, or it can appear in patches. You may also experience a terrible taste, unpleasant breath, or redness in your tongue.

White tongue is occasionally associated with a condition known as hairy tongue. However, the thick fur-like coating you perceive isn't hair; it's your papillae, which are little bumps that house your taste buds.

If you irritate your tongue or get an infection, white tongue can develop over time or appear abruptly. White tongue can be caused by a variety of factors, but it normally fades away after a few weeks. You can also use a mouthwash that is anti-fungal.

However,

if your white tongue persists for more than a few weeks, or if you experience pain or difficulty eating or speaking, you should contact your Summerlin Dentist for a diagnosis and treatment.

CAUSES THAT MAY BE INVOLVED

Why does my tongue appear to be white?

Bacteria, detritus (such as food and sugar), and dead cells are stuck between the papillae on the surface of your tongue, resulting in a white tongue. These string-like papillae enlarge and swell, becoming inflammatory in some cases. This is what causes the white patch on your tongue.

A white tongue can be produced by a variety of disorders, that we have seen at Summerlin Dental Solutions including:

Leukoplakia is a frequent disorder characterized by an overgrowth of cells in the mouth's lining. A white elevated patch on your tongue is formed when these cells interact with the protein keratin (present in your hair). When you drink alcohol or smoke tobacco, you might often obtain this illness by irritating your mouth and tongue. There are occasions when there is no evident cause. Leukoplakia is normally harmless, but it can develop into something more serious years or even decades after it initially appears.

Oral lichen planus is a long-term inflammatory mouth condition known as oral lichen planus. It's brought on by an immune system malfunction (your body's defense against pathogens) and other tiny assaults. This is a condition that you cannot pass on to others.

Geographic tongue is a condition that occurs while the skin of your tongue is regrowing. Parts of your tongue's upper layer of skin shed too quickly, causing painful red spots that are easily infected. Meanwhile, some sections of your tongue get white when they remain in place for too long. You can't pass on your geographic tongue to others.

Oral thrush is a yeast infection that occurs in the mouth and is caused by the Candida yeast (fungus). Candida is generally found in your mouth, but it can cause an issue if it over develops.

Who is the most vulnerable to white tongue?

You're more likely to have white tongue or oral thrush if you have certain health concerns, use certain substances, or have certain habits (an infection causing a white patch on your tongue).

These are some of the risk factors:

Having diabetes

Being extremely young or extremely elderly. Infants and toddlers are the most prevalent victims of oral thrush.

Antibiotics are used (they can cause a yeast infection inside your mouth).

Consuming a diet devoid of fruits and vegetables (iron or vitamin B12). It can also be caused by eating a diet high in soft foods.

Fever or a weakened immune system.

Wearing dentures or piercing your tongue with sharp things are both bad ideas.

Oral hygiene is a problem.

Taking a deep breath via your mouth.

Dehydration, a dry mouth induced by a medical condition, or the use of drugs (like muscle relaxers).

Tobacco use (smoking or chewing).

Having more than one alcoholic beverage every day.

cancer treatments.

Hypothyroidism is a condition that affects the thyroid gland (an underactive thyroid gland causing poor metabolism).

 Is it true that tongue piercings result in a white tongue?

You may see a white coating on your tongue if you (or your teen) recently had a tongue piercing. It's just natural bacterial growth that antifungal mouthwashes like Nystatin (like Nystop®) can help with. A white ring of tissue may appear around both sides of your piercing, but this is simply how your tongue heals from a cut.

Because your papillae (those small bumps on your tongue) are elevated, debris and microorganisms (food, plaque, and bacteria) can build on a vast surface area within your mouth. Terrible breath and a bad taste in your mouth are almost probably caused by this buildup. Gum disease can also be caused by a white tongue.

These are some of the causes of white tongue. We will discuss some of the treatments in another Summerlin Dental Solutions blog.

Get to Know the Dentist

Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.

With an emphasis on cosmetic, complete makeovers and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning.  Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all of the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations and high-resolution pictures of proposed treatment on 55 inch screens.  She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.  Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.

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851 S Rampart Blvd #230, Las Vegas, NV 89145 | (702) 341-9160
851 S Rampart Blvd #230, Las Vegas, NV 89145 | (702) 341-9160