Dentists like Karen E. Williamson DDS PA in Rockwall TX diagnose and treat conditions of the teeth and gums. These conditions can affect the tongue. Let’s discuss the tongue.
Have you ever considered all the important things your tongue can do? It helps us talk, perceive the texture and flavor of food, chew, and swallow.
This strong and nimble gymnast is in nonstop motion during our waking hours. It is a wonder that we don’t accidentally bite it more often as we smile, chew, drink, breathe, swallow, cough, and laugh.
Your tongue can also reveal physical problems. These may include digestive issues, infections, and diseases of the blood.
When we perform oral exams, the tongue is always looked at for signs of oral cancer and other serious diseases.
Here are some tongue abnormalities and possible causes:
- Swollen tongue: reaction to food/drink/medication, strep infection, leukemia, hypothyroidism
- White tongue: dehydration, yeast infection, irritation to tobacco, enteritis, gastritis, colitis, anemia, or other nutritional deficiency
- Canker sores: may be linked to stress or reaction to food, toothpaste, or mouthwash.
If you have persistent canker sores, you may want to try eliminating products that contain sodium lauryl (or laurel) sulfate (SLS). SLS is a foaming agent that is found in many personal care products.
If you can’t find an SLS-free toothpaste at your local grocery store, we would suggest trying health food stores, specialty drug stores, or trusted online sites.
Karen E. Williamson DDS PA in Rockwall TX provides general and cosmetic dentistry. Your dental health is our number one concern. Schedule your next appointment with us today.
Contact Karen E Williamson D.D.S., P.A:
469-402-0024
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
560 W Ralph Hall Pkwy, Rockwall, TX
Rockwall, Texas
75032
