What Your Tongue Says About Your Health

You might not think about your tongue much—unless you burn it on coffee or bite it by accident. But this simple muscle plays a big role in your daily life. It helps you speak, chew, swallow, and even keep your teeth clean. And believe it or not, your tongue has a story to tell, too. Its color, texture, and overall appearance can offer clues about your health—both oral and overall.

A Healthy Tongue, at a Glance

A healthy tongue is usually pink, firm, and covered in small bumps called papillae. These help with taste and texture detection. While some color variations are normal, major changes could be worth mentioning to your dentist.

White Coating or Patches

A white or patchy coating might be caused by poor oral hygiene or dehydration—but it can also point to fungal infections like oral thrush. In some cases, it may signal irritation from smoking or dry mouth. If it doesn’t brush off easily or comes with discomfort, don’t ignore it.

Red, Shiny, or Sore Tongue

A bright red tongue can sometimes be a sign of vitamin deficiencies, especially B12 or iron. It can also occur with fevers, allergic reactions, or other systemic issues. A sore, burning sensation may be linked to a condition known as burning mouth syndrome, which can feel like a mild sunburn without a visible cause.

Geographic and Hairy Tongues

If you notice smooth, red patches with white borders that seem to move around, you might have geographic tongue. It’s harmless but can look alarming. Hairy tongue is another benign condition caused by a buildup of dead cells and bacteria, often appearing dark or fuzzy. It’s usually linked to smoking, dry mouth, or poor brushing habits.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Jonesboro, AR at Wagner & Langston Family Dentistry

At Wagner & Langston Family Dentistry in Jonesboro, Dr. Katy Wagner and Dr. Jacob Langston check more than just your teeth. During your routine exam, they’ll examine your tongue, gums, and other soft tissues to make sure everything looks healthy.

If something on your tongue seems off, don’t wait for your next visit. Give us a call—we’re here to help you make sense of what your mouth is trying to tell you.

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Categorized in: Dental Tips, Oral Health