One of the things we all take for granted is our tongue. When we were small we explored the world with it, licked everything we saw, much to our mother’s dismay, and stuck it out at our parents and siblings to see how they would react. As we experienced our first kisses and tried new dishes as young people, we discovered that our tongue had more to offer. The tongue is, however, more than a physical feature; it is essential to our ability to taste and swallow food. It is hard to believe that your tongue can give your dentist information not only about your dental health but about your general state of health. You may be surprised what it can reveal. Prepare to say «ahhhhh».
What your tongue can tell you
A white coating
The ideal colour for your tongue is a healthy pink. If you notice that parts of it are covered with a white coating, it may be oral thrush, a yeast infection in the mouth. It may equally be that your tongue is white simply because you have not scrubbed it each time you brush. If the white washes away, you are fine.
White patches
The condition known as leukoplakia can develop when the tongue has become inflamed, for instance through smoking or tobacco use. Any doctor will advise you to give up smoking, but the decision is entirely yours. To be on the safe side and to rule out oral cancer, arrange an appointment with your dentist if you notice white patches.
A very red tongue
Although an excessively red tongue can be a sign of Kawasaki disease, vitamin deficiencies — particularly of folate or B12 — are far more commonly the cause. A simple vitamin supplement in your morning smoothie could be the answer. That is not so bad, is it?
Unusual red, bumpy patches
If your tongue resembles a rough map with red, bumpy patches all over, that is no omen about your travel plans. The last thing you should do in such a situation is set off on a long trip abroad, since you could be running a high temperature.
A sore, irritated tongue
If your tongue is unusually tender in one spot or all over, it may be a food allergy or a mouth ulcer. As long as it does not persist over a longer period, there is no need to worry. If it does, ask your dentist for advice.
An unruly tongue
Yes, it sounds bizarre, but occasionally a build-up of protein can cause microscopic lumps to spread and trap food, making your tongue look hairy. If this does not stop despite regular brushing and tongue scraping, a visit to the dentist is called for.
The first port of call for health problems large and small is your dentist. So at your next visit, stick out your tongue and prepare for a thorough examination. Your tongue can tell you something about your state of health — you never know.
