Sore or white tongue
A sore or white tongue isn't usually serious and is often easily treated. Most should only last a short time.
Things you can do yourself
Do
- use a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth
- use a toothpaste that doesn't contain sodium lauryl sulphate
- brush your tongue or use a scraper to help improve a white tongue
- use a straw to drink cool drinks
- take painkillers
Don't
- do not eat hard, spicy, salty, acidic or hot food and drink that may irritate your tongue
- do not smoke
- do not drink alcohol
A pharmacist can help with a sore or white tongue
A pharmacist can look at your tongue and might be able to tell you:
- what's causing it
- if you can buy anything to help with any pain or irritation
- if you should see a dentist or GP
See a GP or dentist if you:
- have pain or itchiness that doesn't go away or gets worse
- have white patches on your tongue
Common causes of a sore or white tongue
Biting or burning your tongue with hot food or drink can cause pain and swelling. But this should last only a few days.
A white tongue can be a sign of a health condition.
Don't self-diagnose – see your GP if you're worried.
Lichen planus
Read about lichen planus.
Leukoplakia
Read about leukoplakia.
Geographic tongue
Read about geographic tongue.
Mouth ulcer
Read about mouth ulcers.
Oral thrush
Read about oral thrush.
Page last reviewed: Tue May 2020 Next review due: Tue May 2020
