How to Remove White Film on the Tongue

A number of possible causes exist for white film that can occur on the tongue. The white coating is generally comprised of millions of tiny bacteria that inhabit the tongue. Although this is a benign condition, it is unsightly and bothersome. It is relatively easy to remove this white film from the tongue; however, prevention is key. Taking the steps necessary to remove the film requires changing some daily habits and being proactive. Determining the cause of the white film is a crucial step in removing it from your tongue.

Things You'll Need

• Tongue cleaner
• Liquids
• Saline nasal spray
• Neti pot
• Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your health care provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the white coating on your tongue, such as the fungal infection called thrush.

• 2

  Purchase a tongue cleaner to scrape the coating off of your tongue. Use the cleaner every time you brush your teeth.

• 3

  Wet the tongue cleaner. Stick your tongue out as far as it will go. Place the cleaner at the back of the tongue and gently drag it forward, scraping the film forward as you go.

• 4

  Rinse the tongue cleaner in warm water and repeat several times until the white coating has decreased or disappeared. Rinse your mouth out with warm water when finished.

• 5

  Drink plenty of liquids throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which may result in the development of a sticky, white film on the tongue.

• 6

  Use a saline nasal spray to clear blocked nasal passages, which may result in additional accumulation of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue.

• 7

  Use a neti pot, a form of nasal irrigation, available at pharmacies and health food stores, to cleanse the nasal passages and sinus cavities. This will help eliminate bacteria that forms in the nasal and sinus mucous, which trickles into the mouth and settles on the tongue.

• 8

  Refrain from smoking, which causes the surface of the tongue to become inflamed. The inflammation allows debris and bacteria to get caught in the tongue’s surface, causing the film to develop.

• 9

  Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, which will help to scrape the debris from your tongue, eliminating the white film.