ANSWERS: 1
  • Coated tongue is an unpleasant but harmless medical condition. It can be embarrassing, as it is unsightly and often triggers bad breath. Coated tongue affects men and women of all ages, and while it has one basic cause, it develops from a range of effects.

    Keratin Overproduction

    The tongue produces keratin, a layer of dead cells meant to protect the surface of this unique organ. Keratin is washed away through daily activities like eating, drinking and brushing, but sometimes leftover keratin results in coated tongue. While some actions cause leftover keratin, some people simply produce an excess amount.

    Poor Oral Hygiene

    One of the main ways keratin can overcoat the tongue is through poor oral hygiene, according to the American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology. The buildup of dead cells and leftover particles in the mouth and on the tongue, especially in the morning, can cause coated tongue.

    Cigarettes

    Smoking cigarettes can dry out the mouth, which inhibits saliva from washing away bacteria. This can lead to coated tongue. Smoking itself can cause an overproduction of keratin.

    Soft Food Diet

    Eating soft foods can lead to leftover keratin. This is because soft foods are less likely to impact keratin buildup.

    Colds or Allergies

    A person suffering from a cold or allergies may breathe through the mouth, causing the mouth to dry out and inhibiting the washing away of keratin.

    Source:

    AAOMP: Hairy/Coated Tongue

    BadBreatholgy.com: Underlying Causes of Coated Tongue

    More Information:

    Earth Clinic: Cure a White Coating on the Tongue

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