Your dentist will examine the condition of your entire mouth when you visit for a dental examination. You may not be aware that they also inspect your tongue, even if you are aware that the dentist examines your teeth and gums. We check for variations in your tongue’s color or texture, as these could be indications of possible medical problems. Additionally, if you point out any changes in the tongue, they will take a closer look at them.

Whether tongue changes are permanent is one of the primary questions. A dentist in Kirtland, OH, is unable to determine how long a certain problem was present on your tongue. As a result, you have to become mindful of changes in your mouth.

Make an appointment for a visit with your dentist if you observe any changes in the way your tongue looks or if the pain continues for more than two weeks.

What does your tongue say about your health?

The way your tongue looks might indicate everything from possible early cancer symptoms to adverse drug reactions.  

1. Tobacco use

If you have concerns about what your dentist could say, do not tell them that you do not smoke. The condition of your teeth, gums, and tongue will allow them to make that decision. There is a strong link between tobacco use and cancers of the mouth.

Regular tobacco use can cause a chronically swollen tongue, which is common in leukoplakia. White spots on the tongue typically do not scrape off and are flat and solid. Although this illness is not harmful, it is caused by a surplus of cells in the area, which may eventually develop into cancer. Therefore, if you have leukoplakia, you need to get your mouth and tongue checked for oral cancer on a frequent basis.

2. Nutrient deficiency

Sometimes, when there is a severe lack of particular nutrients, the lumps on the tongue go away, and the tongue seems smooth. Deficiencies in folic acid, iron, or B vitamins can bring this on. A soft tongue can also result from celiac disease, which is defined by a strong response to gluten. This is probably because the digestive disorder can cause malnutrition.

3. Chronic Viral Infection

A persistent viral infection may temporarily change the appearance of the tongue. For example, a tongue that appears hairy may have an average impact on food that becomes stuck there and promotes the growth of microbes. The black hairiness that comes with this condition should be easily eradicated. You may have hairy leukoplakia, which frequently occurs with long-term viral illnesses like HIV or Epstein-Barr virus if you are unable to get rid of the black hair.

4. Other Infection or Condition Types

A strawberry red tongue in children under five years old may be a sign of Kawasaki disease, a dangerous illness that causes inflammation of the vessels in the tongue and throughout the body, giving the tongue its exceptional hue. A pediatrician must be consulted right away for this condition.

At one age, deep grooves may form in the tongue. These naturally occurring cracks just need more effort while brushing to get rid of food; they are not worrisome. However, if you have psoriasis, Down syndrome, or Sjogren’s disease, you might develop a fissured tongue.

5. Side Effects of Medication

Some medications will cause the tongue to change color. The stomach medication bismuth, which is a common element in Pepto Bismol, is one of its most well-known drugs that can turn your tongue black. It might cause your tongue to turn dark black when it interacts with saliva. Your tongue should revert to its natural color once you stop taking medication. Get in contact with your dentist if it does not.

What a Dentist Can Do Regarding Tongue Changes

Your dentist may determine whether tongue alterations need a referral to an oral oncologist or physician. You might occasionally experience a mild illness that goes away on its own. In some instances, however, you might need medical attention to handle an underlying disease that is causing your tongue alterations.