Have you ever looked in the mirror and examined your tongue? Your tongue is a great indicator of your oral health and an easy place to start when it comes to checking it before you turn to general dentistry in Franklin, NC. Your tongue’s appearance can tell you a lot about your health, including whether you have certain diseases or if you're in a good oral state. Your tongue is covered with a layer of skin and is the first region of your body to show signs of problems.  

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The Tongue's Appearance and What It Could Mean

Tongue with White Coating or White Spots 

This is the most common indicator of an oral health problem. You see a white coating on the tongue, and it looks like a white film. It most likely indicates a problem with your gums or the lining of your mouth. An infection can cause this, such as shingles, oral mucositis, fungal infection, or a problem with the way your saliva gets rid of bacteria or food particles.  

A white coating can also result from a dry mouth or an unhealthy diet.

Red Tongue 

This may be the first indicator of a more serious problem. The tongue turns bright red, or red patches begin to appear. This is a sign of an infection spreading throughout your mouth, which could be Kawasaki disease. This disease is most commonly seen in children but has also been seen in adults. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. 

Black and Hairy Tongue 

This scenario is one of the least common issues people experience with their tongue. Your tongue is coated but appears to be full of black and hairy spots. Although this seems extreme, it’s actually fairly harmless and can simply indicate poor dental hygiene. However, a black and hairy tongue can collect more bacteria, making it more harmful for you and your oral health. 

Sore or Bumpy Tongue 

The tongue may appear as if it has bumpy patches. If the patches are painful or uncomfortable, this could signify a more serious problem. This condition can result from an injury that has been sustained, but it can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a viral infection or a bacterial infection.  

An infected area could also result from a problem with your immune system. This condition is a serious problem that requires immediate medical attention. 

Beautiful lady for General dentistry in Franklin NC 

Keep an Eye on Your Oral Health with General Dentistry in Franklin, NC 

If you are experiencing some discomfort with your oral health, the best step is to see your dentist. At Cataloochee Dental Group, our competent team will ensure you have a clean mouth after each visit. We also extend ourselves in educating our patients on the importance of good oral hygiene so they can work with us for a lifetime of excellent dental care.  

We believe that oral health shouldn't be taken for granted to avoid facing more serious and bigger problems in the future. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment and get that dazzling smile you can show to the world.