There are several possible causes for the white, slimy and sticky substance that forms on the inner walls of your mouth.

Though experiencing a white, gooey substance on the inner walls of your mouth is a very unpleasant issue, be assured that the causes are not life-threatening.

“Dry mouth is the most common cause of this unpleasant sensation,” Gary Goldenberg, MD, of Goldenberg Dermatology, and assistant professor of dermatology and pathology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

If you find that your dry mouth seems unrelated to dehydration, place a small piece of lemon rind between your back teeth and inner wall of the mouth, and it will stimulate salivary gland production.

Other Causes of White Sticky Substance Inside Mouth

Dr. Goldenberg says, “Medical causes also exist, however. A yeast infection in the mouth can cause this sensation — this is especially common in patients with diabetes and those with very weak immune systems. An allergy to a food or your dental filling can also be the cause.”

Dr. Goldenberg of Goldenberg Dermatology provides comprehensive care in medical and cosmetic dermatology, including melanoma and other skin cancer, moles, psoriasis, eczema and acne. He is the medical director of the Dermatology Faculty Practice, NY.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.  

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