For many people, an electric toothbrush is an excellent option. But is an electric toothbrush a necessity for a healthy smile?
Your tongue is a small muscular organ, and a healthy tongue can range in color. It is not uncommon for a tongue to turn red, yellow, purple, or another hue due to certain underlying health conditions. While it is not unusual for your tongue to vary in color, any significant changes can signify that something may be wrong.
Read on to learn about the different colors your tongue can appear and what a healthy tongue should look like.
A healthy tongue should be pink in color with small nodules called papillae over the surface. Certain medical disorders may cause your tongue to change in appearance, and a color-changing tongue could be your first indication of a severe underlying issue. If your tongue ever changes significantly in appearance, develops patches or lesions that don't go away, or swells and becomes painful, it is recommended to visit your dentist or doctor right away to determine the cause.
Here is a quick guide to knowing what the color of your tongue is saying about your overall health:
Other abnormalities in your tongue's appearance should warrant a call to your dentist or physician. When checking the appearance of your tongue, be sure to also look for the following:
White Patches
Leukoplakia can occur if the tongue has been irritated, and is commonly seen in those who smoke or use tobacco. If you do not consume tobacco products and are experiencing white spots on the tongue, contact your dentist immediately to rule out oral cancer.
Overly Red
An overly red tongue can be a symptom of a vitamin deficiency, including a lack of folic acid or B12. A simple solution for an excessively red tongue could be adding a vitamin supplement to your morning routine.
Bumpy Patches
Suffering from a high fever can leave your tongue with irregular red and bumpy patches on the surface. After your fever has subsided, your tongue should return to a healthy shade of pink.
Sore and Tender
From food allergies to developing a canker sore, a tender tongue is typically nothing to worry over. However, if your tongue has been painful and causing you discomfort for an extended period, speak with your dentist.
Hairy Appearance
A protein buildup can cause small bumps to become elongated on your tongue, resulting in what appears as strands of hair on the tongue. If you notice your tongue appearing hairy, investing in a tongue brush or a tongue scraper will help to restore your tongue to a healthy state.
Like your teeth, the tongue is a visible part of your smile, so if it doesn't look healthy, it may make you feel self-conscious. You can improve the appearance of your tongue by gently brushing twice a day while cleaning your teeth and gums. Sticking out your tongue to check its color after brushing your teeth daily can be a reassuring habit. That way, if the color of your tongue changes, you will notice it right away.
A healthy tongue color does not guarantee your dental health is in excellent condition, so don't forget to schedule regular dental exams and cleanings with Tompkins Dental!
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