Is it Normal to Have Some White Areas on the Tongue?

Tobacco products are a major cause of oral cancer.

If you recently found a white area on your tongue, you might wonder if this spot is normal. Most white spots on the tongue are considered abnormal and may indicate underlying conditions.

Oral Cancer

The most common cause for white areas on the tongue is oral cancer. Occurrence is highest in people who use tobacco, and may be associated with heavy alcohol consumption. White spots that occur with oral cancer appear most often on the side of tongue and are usually painless until the tumor reaches an advanced stage. Oral cancer may also be accompanied by chewing problems and difficulty swallowing.

Thrush

Another cause of white areas on the tongue is thrush, also known as oral moniliasis. Thrush is a yeast infection that occurs in the oral cavity, and affects people with diabetes, denture wearers, chemotherapy patients, and people suffering from poor nutrition.

Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a condition that manifests into small lesions on the side of the tongue. These lesions most often have a white-blue color. The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, although it may be related to allergic reactions. The condition is generally harmless and can be treated with antihistamines.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Clinic: Oral Cancer
• SkinSight: Thrush in Adults
• University of Maryland Medical Clinic: Lichen Planus