What causes a white furry tongue and sores on your gums and roof of mouth?

Answer 1

A white furry tongue could be a result of lack of vitamin B12 in your body.

Vitamin B12 helps cells in your body to synthesize. When there isn't enough of it in your system it may result in grooves on your tongue. These grooves collect food particles and provide the perfect environment for anaerobic respiration by bacteria in your mouth and throat. As anaerobic respiration produces alcohol it results in bad breath. Whereas, the white layer- which has the consistency of cottage cheese, settled on the surface of the tongue is simply the collection of bacteria known as Candida albicans. It is an yeast which is found in the digestive track.

A white Furry tongue could also be the result of killing oral bacteria. High consumption of tobacco, caffiene and alcohol can kill beneficial oral bacteria and allow accelerated growth of Candida albicans. Using anitbiotics can also have the same effect.

Ayurveda claims that high levels of emotional and mental state can be the cause of over growth of Candida albicans or oral yeast.

To get rid of a "white furry tongue", it is advisable to have take vitamin B12 supplements; cut down consumption of tobacco, caffeine and alcohol; exercise regularly; eat garlic; or simply ask for treatments from your local physician if you are prescribed antibiotics. Most importantly, brush your teeth, clean your tongue and find a way to relax regularly.

For immediate relief:

1. Brush your teeth

2. clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner (remember to start from the base to the tip, do not rub up and down vigorously- it will result in more grooves, allowing more bacteria to accumulate)

3. use a clean finger to apply an even layer of tooth paste.

4. leave it on for two minutes

5. gargle it out with some antibacterial mouthwash, such as listerine.