Excessive Alcohol Use
Excessive alcohol use can cause white tongue. Alcohol causes the production of a chemical called acetaldehyde, which is created when the liver converts alcohol into a more toxic compound known as acetate. Acetaldehyde is further converted into other compounds that are removed from the body by the kidneys and lungs, but it can build up in the mouth and lead to a white or yellow coating on the tongue.
It causes bad breath, too, since it’s volatile enough to evaporate out of the saliva and onto its surface. This buildup is also why your breath may smell like alcohol even when you haven’t been drinking any. This is why many people turn to mouthwash after drinking heavily, but this isn’t always effective because it only masks the odor temporarily. If you suspect that alcohol is causing your white tongue, consult your doctor to determine if you might have other health problems related to your drinking habits.
