What Does Your Tongue Say About Your Dental Health?

Our tongues, we take them for granted a little bit. When we were kids we licked everything is sight to explore that sense. We’ve used it to mess with our siblings by sticking it out at them, and exploring even more exotic foods as we got older. Our tongues play an important role in our ability to taste and eat food. Not only that, our tongue can also provide Dr. DiGrazia and your hygienist with clues to both your oral health and your overall health.

So what does your tongue say about your dental health?

The Color of Your Tongue
Your tongue is supposed to be a pink color. When you stick your tongue out do you see a white film? Worst case, that white film could be oral thrush, or a yeast overgrowth that occurs inside the oral cavity. It could also just be whitish from not brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth. You do that, don’t you? If you don’t, better start now! If that white film goes away when you do brush your tongue, then you’re in good shape.

On the contrary, if your tongue is red rather than pink, that could be a symptom of Kawasaki disease, it’s much more commonly associated with a vitamin deficiency, such as folic acid or B-12. If thats the case, we’ll want to make sure to add a supplement into your diet.

Red Bumpy Patches
Did you know that a red bumpy tongue could mean you’re suffering from a high fever. This is something to absolutely keep an eye for, especially during the climate we’re in right now with COVID-19.

Hairy Tongue
Yeah, you read that right, it is possible to have a hairy tongue! A hairy tongue can sometimes mean a protein build-up, which can cause small bumps to become elongated trapping food resulting in what looks like strands of hair on your tongue. Usually a good brushing or tongue scraping will take care of it, but if it doesn’t, call us to set up an appointment!

We’re here for you at DiGrazia Dental to keep your teeth not only healthy and cavity free, but your entire oral health! If you have any questions on what your tongue is saying about your dental health, give us a call!