DEAR READER: There are several reasons for the tongue to turn yellow. Tobacco use, some medications, the ingestion of certain foods, geographic tongue (discolored regions of taste buds), yeast infection and bacteria on the tongue are a few reasons.

Speak with your dentist, and practice good oral hygiene. Continue to brush your tongue when you brush your teeth. Use warm water and salt gargles once or twice a day. Then make an appointment with your physician to determine whether any medications you might be on could cause the problem. Knowing the cause for the unpleasant condition will help you deal with it better, and you will have a good idea how to keep it under control.