Tongue

Today, we're talking about one of the unsung heroes of oral health- the tongue! The muscular organ in your mouth is always on the move and does more than you might give it credit for. Join us as we explore the untold tales of the tongue, brought to you by your team at Spokane Dental!

1. The Versatile Wonder:

First things first, let's appreciate the sheer versatility of the tongue. Not only does it play a crucial role in speech and communication, but it also helps us savor the delicious flavors of our favorite foods. Imagine a world without the joy of tasting your morning coffee or indulging in a slice of chocolate cake – life would be so much less exciting!

2. Taste Bud Wonderland:

Did you know that your tongue is home to thousands of taste buds? Many people mistakenly believe that the bumps you can see on your tongue are taste buds. The truth is each of those bumps, called “papilla”, each hold many, many cells responsible for taste! These tiny sensory organs are responsible for detecting the five primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. In fact, your taste buds are so adept at their job that they can differentiate between a variety of complex flavors senses.

3. The Strong Silent Type:

While the tongue is primarily known for its taste-related duties, it's also a silent guardian of oral health. It helps to keep your teeth clean by sweeping away food particles and bacteria, acting as a natural cleaner for your pearly whites. This is a reason why cleaning your tongue is an important step in your home oral care routine- it can house a lot of bacteria! So, the next time you brush your teeth, take a moment to appreciate the teamwork between your toothbrush and trusty tongue and give it a little love with a tongue scraper.

4. Tongue-Tied Tales:

Ever heard the phrase "tongue-tied"? It's not just a figure of speech! Some people have a condition called ankyloglossia, commonly known as being tongue-tied. This occurs when the strip of skin beneath the tongue (lingual frenulum) is shorter than usual, limiting the range of motion of the tongue. Ankyloglossia can affect speech and oral health. This is something Dr. Smith and our hygiene team can catch and help treatment plan for during our routine oral screenings every visit.

5. The Tongue's Telltale Signs:

Believe it or not, your tongue can reveal a lot about your overall health. We examine the color, texture, and coating of the tongue to detect signs of potential health issues. A healthy tongue typically boasts a pinkish hue and a smooth surface. Any deviations might be indicative of underlying concerns.

6. The Eighth Wonder

It is fairly common knowledge that the tongue is a “muscle”. What is not so common knowledge is the fact that the tongue is actually made up of eight muscles! Think of that little known fact next time you try to tackle a tongue twister.

At Spokane Dental, we understand the important role your tongue plays in your overall oral health. Our team is here to ensure that every aspect of your oral well-being receives the attention it deserves. From routine check-ups to addressing specific concerns, we are committed to providing top-notch dental care tailored to your unique needs.

If you've been pondering the state of your oral health or have any questions about your tongue's well-being, don't hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with Spokane Dental today, and let our experts guide you on a journey to a healthier, happier smile. Call us today at (509)822-5614.