The tongue is a part of oral health many people overlook, and it’s not until they notice something wrong that they become concerned. Yellow discoloration is one of the most noticeable issues, and there are a number of causes. Familiarizing yourself with these problems will ensure you avoid repeat incidents and seek proper care from your dentist.

Causes of Yellow Tongue

1. Dry Mouth

If you suffer from chronic dry mouth, saliva won’t sufficiently wash bacteria from your tongue. Dry mouth occurs because of not hydrating enough or because of an underlying medical issue. Dry mouth also means that saliva isn’t cleaning your teeth, making you more susceptible to tooth decay. Speak with your dentist so they can offer solutions and help you prevent oral health problems.

2. Poor Dental Care

Yellow tongue occurs when dead skin cells and bacteria build up on the tongue. The most common cause is poor oral hygiene. As bacteria builds up, it releases pigmentation and may be accompanied by food or tobacco residue trapped on the tongue. Avoid the issue by brushing your tongue regularly. It can typically be resolved at home by cleaning your mouth with hydrogen peroxide and a tongue brush.

3. Jaundice

One of the most serious health issues associated with yellow tongue is jaundice. This is a result of liver damage, commonly from alcoholism. Jaundice should be treated as a medical emergency and is often accompanied by fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. See your dentist and physician to determine if you’re living with jaundice, and never delay an appointment, as the condition will worsen.

Proper dental care is the key to a healthy mouth, and the team at Coulee Family Dental will help. Led by dentist Dr. Joseph Kotnour, DDS, and dentist Dr. Christine Jones, DDS, they proudly offer comprehensive services to residents of La Crosse, WI. They treat a variety of oral health issues, such as root canal infections, and offer cosmetic dentistry enhancements, which you can explore on their website. Call (608) 782-3102 to schedule an exam and visit their website to learn more about the practice.