Letter W
White patches on the tongue
Also known as: White tongue, Leukoplakia (after review)
White patches on the tongue symptom guide: what it can mean, possible causes, and when to seek care. Educational only.
Overview
White patches may be a coated tongue, thrush, or leukoplakia. Thrush often scrapes and leaves a red area. Patches that will not clear deserve an oral check.
Possible causes
- Yeast (thrush)
- Coated tongue
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dry mouth
- Smoking irritation
When to see a doctor
Visit a clinic if patches last more than 2 weeks, hurt, or will not scrape away.