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DrWatson · 70-79, M
For what it's worth, here is Google's AI overview on the subject. Google AI is sometimes way off the mark, but I found several links from medical sites that discuss the issue. Oral hygiene is cited more often than alcohol as the cause.
A yellow lining on the tongue can be caused by regular alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate the mouth and allow bacteria, dead skin cells, and stains from other sources like coffee or tobacco to build up. This condition, also known as hairy tongue in severe cases, is often temporary and can be resolved with good oral hygiene, including brushing your tongue, flossing daily, and staying hydrated.