What Does Your Tongue Have to Say About Your Oral Health
Your dentist is the first line of defense against both serious and benign health concerns, so open wide for Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS to give you a comprehensive oral checkup. Your tongue and mouth might have something to say about your overall health!
What Can Your Tongue Tell Dr. Evanson About Your Health?
Naturally Dr. Evanson is interested in your teeth and gums, but she also observes the general appearance of your tongue and oral tissues as part of a routine examination twice a year. In addition, Dr. Evanson, performs an Oral Cancer Screening, which is an important assessment that can save lives. The American Dental Association (ADA) has established guidelines to check for signs of oral cancer and other issues concerning the health of your mouth.
Signs to Watch for on your Tongue
White Patches
If your tongue has been irritated, you may see white patches (leukoplakia) on your tongue. This is caused by an excess growth of cells, which is often associated with smokers. If the patches don’t go away within a week or two, it’s important to make an appointment with Dr. Evanson to rule out oral cancer. The patches could be precancerous lesions that could develop into cancer. In many cases, leukoplakia can be reversed when you stop smoking, and will prevent you from getting a tongue disease.
Red and White Patches
There are varied signs of oral cancer for you to be aware of. The majority of mouth cancers begin in the squamous cells that cover the surfaces of your mouth, tongue, and lips. A white or red patch in these areas, in the tonsils, or the lining of your mouth may be a sign of squamous cell carcinoma. If these patches linger for more than two weeks, they can be precancerous. Often you see these mouth irregularities before you feel them. Please don’t ignore them! In the early stages, mouth cancer will not likely cause any pain. Make an appointment with Dr. Evanson for a thorough oral examination.
Your Tongue Has a White Coating
Your tongue should be a nice shade of light pink. If it seems to be coated with a white substance (thrush), this could be a yeast overgrowth that happens when there is an overproduction of candida. The culprit is often the use of antibiotics, which kills some bacteria, but it can allow yeast, which is not killed by antibiotics, to thrive. Thrush can also occur in individuals with weakened immune systems.
When you don’t brush your tongue, a white coating can occur. If the coating brushes away, you need to adopt the habit of brushing your tongue when you brush your teeth and this problem will be eliminated.
Does Your Tongue Feel Like it’s Burning?
Burning mouth syndrome can happen to anyone, but post-menopausal women are more likely to experience it than men. If your tongue stings and burns, hormonal changes related to menopause could be to blame. Drinking more water, using alcohol-free mouthwash and prescription toothpaste are some of the ways to deal with this painful ailment.
It’s Time to Become Familiar with Your Mouth and Tongue
Regular dental examinations twice a year are essential. Finding a precancerous lesion could save your life! Dr. Evanson’s professional experience combined with your own self- examination each month, will help you be aware of any changes in your mouth.
Dr. Evanson has served her patients with comprehensive dental care since 1994. Let her learn firsthand what your tongue is trying to tell you. Call our office at (720) 409-0008 or contact us online for an appointment.
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