We often focus on teeth and gums when discussing oral health, but the tongue, a vital muscle, is equally important. The tongue plays a critical role in speech, eating, swallowing, and can even provide clues about our overall health. Monitoring your tongue’s appearance can offer insights into various bodily functions and potential health issues.

Why Tongue Health Matters

The tongue’s appearance can reflect:

Hydration Levels: A dry tongue can indicate dehydration.
Nutritional Status: Certain vitamin deficiencies can manifest as changes in tongue color or texture.
Blood Flow: The tongue’s color can provide clues about circulation.
Kidney Function: Changes in tongue coating can sometimes be linked to kidney issues.
Potential for Oral Cancer: Unusual lumps, bumps, or persistent sores on the tongue should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Key Factors to Monitor:

Regularly examining your tongue can help you identify potential problems early. Pay attention to:

Color: A healthy tongue is typically pink. Unusual redness, paleness, or discoloration could indicate an underlying issue.
Shape: Note any swelling, asymmetry, or unusual indentations.
Moisture: A healthy tongue is moist. Excessive dryness can be a sign of dehydration or other problems.
Coating: A thin, white coating is normal. A thick, discolored, or patchy coating could indicate an issue.
Texture: Look for any unusual bumps, lumps, sores, or changes in the texture of the tongue’s surface.
Cracking/Fissures: While some tongue fissures are normal, deep or painful cracks should be evaluated.

Black Hairy Tongue (Lingua Villosa Nigra):

This condition, though usually harmless, can be alarming. It causes the filiform papillae (the tiny, hair-like projections on the tongue) to become elongated and discolored, giving the tongue a dark, “hairy” appearance. It’s often associated with tobacco use (smoking or chewing), poor oral hygiene, or certain medications. Treatment typically involves improving oral hygiene, using a medicated mouthwash, or, in some cases, prescription medications.

How to Care for Your Tongue:

Brush Your Tongue: Gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush every time you brush your teeth. This helps remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells.
Use a Tongue Scraper: A tongue scraper is a tool specifically designed to clean the tongue’s surface. It can be more effective than a toothbrush at removing buildup.
Mouthwash/Mouth Rinse: Using an antimicrobial mouthwash or mouth rinse can help kill bacteria and freshen breath.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth and tongue moist.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Your dentist can examine your tongue during routine check-ups and identify any potential problems.
See Doctor or Dentist.

By incorporating tongue care into your daily oral hygiene routine and paying attention to any changes in your tongue’s appearance, you can play an active role in maintaining both your oral and overall health.

By Alexander Ash, DDS

Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.