If you have a white tongue, you may be dealing with a fungal infection called oral thrush. It’s caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida and can grow in the mouth, throat, and other parts of the body. Thrush creates white, raised lesions on the tongue and cheeks and may result in pain, redness, and cracking of the tongue or the corners of the lips. It can also affect your ability to taste. It’s most common in children who are still developing their immune systems or older adults whose immune systems are beginning to fail. The white film usually goes away on its own, but read on to learn about some home remedies and prevention methods.

Some people avoid visiting the dentist until they have a cavity, gum issues, or another oral health problem. Though it may not seem necessary, visiting the dentist every six months is key to keeping your smile healthy. Not only does this allow them to take preventive measures, but it also allows your dentist to identify and treat existing problems. Read on to learn about the importance of early detection of oral health problems and how this can help you maintain a gorgeous grin.