Have you ever thought what is the white bacteria that covers our tongue a while after every time we eat? The white substance is bacteria, and it appears on every tongue. Bacteria can be of several types; however, not all of them are harmful. Whatever the kind they are, they all contribute to bad oral health.
From a thing as familiar as bad breath to severe oral conditions, cleaning your tongue can prevent a range of health issues.
How to Clean your Tongue?
The tongue consists of a lot of grooves and crevices. After eating, food particles don’t entirely get washed down. Therefore, paying particular attention to cleaning your tongue can save you from oral and over health issues.
After you’re done brushing your teeth, make sure that you gently clean your tongue with a toothbrush in slow outward motion. It will ensure that all the build-up goes out of your mouth. Although most people use this method, studies show that using tongue scrapers is the most effective way to clean the tongue.
Telltale Signs on your Tongue
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White Patches
White patches on the tongue are usually a result of papillae – small bumps found on the tongue. When we eat, these bumps accumulate food debris and plaque bacteria. It’s frequent with people with dry mouth. Cleaning your tongue can help prevent it.
However, if the whiteness stays around, it might be candida or yeast. People who have diabetes, or are on antibiotics or chemotherapy have a high chance of developing a candida. You don’t have to worry if it’s candida. It can be treated easily with an anti-fungal mouth wash.
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Striped Tongue
If you’re experiencing dry mouth and your tongue has stripes on it, it’s most likely a Lichen Planus case, which is a term for your immune system trying to get rid of cells in your mouth. People most prone to this condition are middle-aged.
It is a serious oral health concern, especially if you’re experiencing paid. It’ll need to be examined promptly by your dentist. If ignored, it can lead to gum disease. There is also a risk of oral cancer in that area. Be cognizant. Act Quick.
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Red Swollen Tongue
Bright red or swollen tongue – resembling a strawberry – can be a sign of scarlet fever. It is a bacterial condition where people with strep throat and high fever develop a red tongue. It can easily be treated with antibiotics.
There is also a possibility that your red tongue is because of Atrophic Glossitis – which is a condition where you lose your taste buds because of vitamin deficiency. Taking appropriate supplements can cure redness.
Go to Your Dentist
While reading up on these signs of issues with your oral health is important, it is not enough. It is time that we all start taking our oral health seriously. We recommend that you visit your dentist every six months for a regular checkup. If you’re in Irving, Tx, visit us at Rabile Family Dentistry for a dental examination. We offer affordable promotional packages for new and regular patients with services ranging from teeth whitening to orthodontist checkups.
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