Your tongue, like your teeth and gums, is probably not something you think about all that often, yet it’s an important component of your oral health. If you start having issues with your tongue, it may be a sign that something is wrong with your dental health and needs to be fixed.
What you should know about your tongue and how it impacts your dental health is covered in the following:
How Should Your Tongue Look?
Even though a healthy tongue typically appears pink, it can also appear lighter or darker. It has a rough surface due to the papillae, which are tiny bumps. Likewise, your tongue ought to appear and feel moist. For the purpose of getting rid of any bacteria, wash your tongue after brushing your teeth. The best time to examine your tongue in the mirror is now so that you can become familiar with its typical appearance and be alert to any changes as they take place. A Fairfield, ME family dentistry should be consulted if you detect any changes.
Look out for these symptoms
If the appearance of your tongue changes, you may be experiencing problems with your dental or general health. The common alterations listed below can help you and your dentist identifies potential warning signs.
White Spots: You may have a fungal infection if you notice creamy white dots on your tongue. You might have lichen planus, an autoimmune condition that destroys the tissues in your mouth if they appear lacy. If you notice any flat, white, difficult-to-scrape-away patches, let your dentist know since they could be a sign of oral cancer.
Bumps: Your tongue may develop little bumps for a variety of causes. Your tongue’s tip may develop temporary lingual papillitis, also referred to as “lie bumps,” in response to irritation.
“Hairy” Tongue: Dead skin cells may have accumulated on papillae if you have what appears to be dark fur on your tongue or if you have a “hairy” tongue. As they grow longer, they form strands that catch food, bacteria, cigarettes, and other items.
Burning Sensation: If you experience burning on the tip of your tongue, there may be an infection, acid reflux, dry mouth, or an overabundance of acidic foods in your diet. A nerve problem could also be indicated by it.
Shiny Tongue Tissue: Fungal infections can result in smooth, shiny tongue tissue that may also itch and burn. Antifungal medications can be used to treat them by your dentist.