It’s not something you notice much, as it’s something you are used to. You’re probably more focused on cleaning your teeth to prevent cavities, so it’s unlikely that this is the most important part of your oral cavity. If your tongue is discolored, such as grayish, it’s likely that you have some issues.
Among the most common questions you may have is “Why is my tongue gray?” What causes gray tongue?
What should I do? Let’s discuss the most common causes of grayish-colored tongues, as well as your risk factors and treatment options.
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia can lead to white or grayish spots appearing inside your mouth. Although they can occasionally appear on your tongue, they are more common on your cheeks and gums. This is not usually painful, and it may go unnoticed for some time if you neglect to attend your regular dental visits. This is a sign you have Leukoplakia. You can’t gently remove these grayish or white patches by yourself.
This condition is more common in smokers who smoke a lot, those who chew tobacco or drink excessive amounts of alcohol.
Although leukoplakia is not usually dangerous, it should be treated. If left untreated, it can become a precancerous condition.
Oral Lichen Planus
Lichen planus, an inflammatory condition that can affect various parts of the body, may appear as reddish-purple bumps or rashes. It can cause gray-colored or lacy lesions in your mouth.
The patches that form inside your mouth don’t cause any discomfort or itching. However, some people may develop tender sores or ulcers from the oral lichen planus.
Most cases of oral lichenplanus can’t be diagnosed. It usually happens when your immune system is not responding to certain stimuli. Oral lichen planus is triggered by a weak immune system.
- Hepatitis C
- Flu vaccine
- Some metals and chemicals (such as an amalgam filling that is used in dental work), are not safe to consume.
- Some pain relievers such as ibuprofen, medications for arthritis, heart disease and diabetes, such as ibuprofen, are also available.
Oral lichen planus doesn’t usually cause any harm. Only 1% of cases of oral lichen planus are linked to oral cancer, according to the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine.
Oral Thrush
Oral Thrush is caused by Candida fungus (also known as yeast). Although this fungus is naturally found in our mouths, it can sometimes become excessively large in older adults or babies with a weaker immune system.
The symptoms of oral thrush are white, cottage cheese-like spots inside the mouth and on the tongue. These patches can’t be removed easily and you’ll most likely see the underside as reddened and bleeding if you take out a patch. We do not recommend that you try to treat oral thrush yourself, just like leukoplakia.
This opportunistic or oral infection can be caused by many things. It is more common in people who have a weak or suppressed immune system such as those with cancer or diabetes. Because antibiotics can kill the bacteria in the mouth that normally keeps yeast in balance, it may also occur after antibiotic treatment.
Poor Oral Hygiene
A white or gray tongue can be caused by poor oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can cause small projections of your tongue (papillae) to become inflamed.
These inflamed projections can trap bacteria and dead cells, giving the tongue a white coating. This is not a cosmetic problem. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a coated tongue. This is yet another reason to maintain a strict at-home oral hygiene routine.
Gray Tongue Treatments
Your dentist should be consulted if you notice that your tongue is turning gray. Your dentist or dental hygienist will examine your tongue to determine the reason for discoloration. The diagnosis will determine the treatment and length you should be given. Let’s look at each one:
Surveillance is the first treatment in cases of leukoplakia. Your dentist will need to monitor it closely to ensure it doesn’t become cancerous.
Retire from lifestyle habits that can make you more vulnerable to leukoplakia. It’s the best time ever to stop smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
Oral lichen planus can be treated with surveillance. The condition may resolve on its own. Some treatments such as corticosteroid gels and mouthwashes can be used to relieve symptoms.
Antifungal medication is the best option if oral thrush is causing your grayish-colored tongue. For mild cases, you may be prescribed antifungal lozenges or mouthrinses. For more severe cases, an oral antifungal prescription may be necessary.
If you have been neglecting to floss or brush your teeth as often as you should, you can get back into the habit of brushing twice a day and cleaning between your gums with floss, water flosser or another interdental cleaning tool.
To remove any bacteria, follow up with a mouthwash. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth. Also, be sure to gently clean your tongue .
Gray coatings on the tongue can be alarming and cause panic. This is normal.
Remember that most causes for tongue discoloration can be treated quickly and are usually quite harmless. It is important to consult a dentist for diagnosis and, if necessary, to discuss a plan of treatment.
You should also be kind to yourself. Too hard brushing or scraping of oral lesions is not a good idea. Some may require medication to be removed. Your dentist can help you feel confident about your smile if you have concerns about your tongue.