Dear Dr. Gott: I have a problem with my tongue turning white. I brush the coating off each morning, but by nighttime, I have to do it again. I can't understand why this happens. It is worse when I eat a lot of sweets. What do I need to do? I like a pink tongue.

Reply: The white coating to which you refer is the result of inflammation of the tiny projections on the surface of your tongue, caused by dead cells, bacteria and debris. There are several reasons for this generally harmless condition. The first is dehydration. Then there's excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. You may be a mouth breather, have a bacterial infection, geographic tongue, oral lichen planus, oral thrush or leukoplakia. Or you may have been placed on a medication that has white tongue as a side effect. Oral lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder. Oral thrush is a candida infection that causes lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, gums and back of the throat. Your symptoms don't appear to fit the profile for geographic tongue. Leukoplakia is commonly the result of tobacco use, smoked, chewed or used in other forms. It is generally a benign condition but could be precancerous.

See your physician, who will examine you and might choose to order testing to determine whether an underlying cause, such as diabetes, is at the root of the problem. Once specific conditions and infections can be ruled out, medication or other treatment might be appropriate. Or he or she might suggest you follow up with your dentist.

Dear Dr. Gott: I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and am presently taking two calcium tablets and one multivitamin for mature adults. Would this help my condition?

Reply: Osteoporosis occurs when the normal buildup and breakdown of minerals in healthy bones falls out of balance. The condition is difficult to detect in its early stages, but the first clue is often a bone fracture, loss of height, back pain, stooped shoulders or through a routine bone density (X-ray) study. There are a number of prescription medications; however, as you may be aware, several can lead to osteonecrosis of the jaw and other serious complications.

The recommendation for people 51 and older is 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day. Vitamin D is of equal importance in order to utilise the calcium and should not exceed 2,000 IU daily for healthy people. Therefore, in answer to your question, it all depends on how much calcium and D is present in the vitamin regimen you are taking. Read the ingredient label. If necessary, switch to combinations of calcium and D available at your local pharmacy in single-tablet form.

Beyond that, don't smoke, avoid alcohol, maintain good posture, eat well, and exercise.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report 'Osteoporosis'. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped number ten envelope and a $2 cheque or money order to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.