Even though the tongue is one of the strongest muscles in the body and allows us to swallow, it plays an important role in our health.
With that being said, it's time to go look in the mirror and open wide!
If you notice any of the following, see your dentist as soon as possible.
White Coating: This could mean you have oral thrush commonly know as a yeast infection. This is where the genus candida develops on the mucous membrane.
White Patches: A condition called Leukoplakia, which leaves thick white patches on the tongue. This is often seen in people who smoke and chew tobacco.
Black Hairy Tongue: Yes, this is a real thing! This condition is temporary and harmless, it just gives the tongue a dark, furry appearance. This is just a collection of dead cells that are stained by tobacco use, dark-colored drinks and foods. Treatment is easy, just a good brushing and tongue scraping does the trick!
Overly Red Tongue: The symptoms are common to Kawasaki disease. Kawasaki disease is the inflammation in the blood vessels causing swelling and redness. This could be due to low levels of Vitamin B12. This can be easily added to your daily routine!
Irregular Red Bumpy Patches: This can be a sign that you have a fever...Get out that thermometer and double-check!
Tender Tongue: This could be a sign of a food allergy or the dreaded canker sore is about to appear.
*All pictures were found on google*
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