Your body could be trying to tell you about a health problem through your spit, health experts warn.
A good time to check your spit is when you’re about to start brushing your teeth – including before applying any toothpaste that could change the colour or consistency.
Being aware of what to look out for is half the battle when it comes to staying on top of your health and wellbeing.
Certain colours and consistencies are normal – like white coloured and fluid spit. Whilst food and drink may impact what you spit out, you might notice something that doesn’t quite look right.
According to Dr Vikas Prinja, who is known to his 277,000 TikTok followers as @thelondondentist, put out a quick video explaining what some colours could mean if you spot them in your sink.
He said: “If you’re worried, always get to your GP”. An NHS professional should be abe to get to the bottom of what’s causing your issues.
In the video, Dr Prinja explained the following scenarios:
- White – but sticky: Sign of dehydration or dry mouth. This is also common in cancer patients getting treatment.
- Green: Your body is fighting an infection
- Red (when brushing): Points to gum disease
- Brown/Black (or Red when you’re not brushing): Signs of a number of medical conditions like pneumonia or tuberculosis. Black spit is often common for smokers.
Dry mouth is a fairly common complaint that dentists and doctors deal with. It’s rarely a sign of anything serious and there are things you can do to help ease it yourself.
According to the NHS, having plenty of cold water during the day will help rehydrate your mouth. It’s also advised to keep some water by your bed at night.
You could also suck on ice cubes or ice lollies. Chewing sugar-free gum also promotes the production of saliva.
Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is one of the most important things you can do to cure, and prevent, this condition.
Brushing your teeth twice a day and use alcohol-free mouthwash can rid you of a dry mouth too.