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A fungal infection caused by Candida yeast overgrowth can create creamy white patches on the tongue and mouth lining. This often occurs after antibiotics, with diabetes, or weakened immunity.
Symptoms:
Cottage cheese-like patches
Redness or soreness underneath
Burning sensation or swallowing difficulty
What You Can Do:
See a healthcare provider for antifungal treatment.
Manage underlying health issues like blood sugar.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene.
4. Smoking and Tobacco Use
Tobacco irritates mouth tissues, promotes bacterial growth, and reduces saliva, leading to thick white patches on the tongue.
What You Can Do:
Quit smoking to reverse damage.
See a dentist if white patches persist or become painful.
Consider smoking cessation aids.
5. Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia causes thick white or grayish patches that cannot be scraped off. While mostly benign, it can sometimes lead to oral cancer.
What You Can Do:
Consult a dentist or doctor for persistent patches.
A biopsy may be necessary to rule out cancer.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
6. Geographic Tongue
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