We often tend to overlook and ignore our tongue, taking it for granted. As kids, we explored the world with this body organ, licking everything we saw and sticking it out at our siblings, friends and parents to mock their reaction. As young adults, there was more adventures waiting for our beloved tongue like first kisses and amazing food. But our tongue is more than just a normal body part, they play an important role by being able to taste and swallow food. It also gives a lot of cues to your dentist at Montrose Family Dental mission statement about your oral health and your health as a whole. As a matter of fact, you may be surprised what your tongue can say about your health. Here is what you need to know.
- White Coating on Tongue
Your tongue should look pink. If it is coated with whitish substance, then it is the yeast overgrowth that happens in the oral cavity. And of course, it happens when you don’t brush your teeth. If the white is gone, you are good to go.
- White Patches on Tongue
Leukoplakia is a condition that occurs if your tongue is being irritated in some way like with smoking or using tobacco. Every professional will recommend you to quit eating tobacco, but that is all up to you. If you can see white patches still, then book an appointment with your dentist today. Don’t be too late or it will end up in an oral cancer.
- Overly Red Tongue
While this may be a symptom of a Kawasaki disease, but this is a very common one for vitamin deficiency like B 12 or folic acid. All you have to do is add some vitamin supplement in your morning regime.
- Irregular Red Bumpy Patches
This means that you may be suffering from a very high fever.
- Tender, Sore Tongue
If your tongue is getting sensitive, you may have a food allergy or may be developing a canker sore. If that is the case, check in with a dentist as soon as possible.
- Hairy Tongue
Yes, this happens too with many. This happens because of some protein accumulation that may cause small bumps to stretch to trap food that may seem like strands of hair on your tongue. Normally, a good brushing or tongue scraping can help. If it doesn’t, consult a doctor.
