The General Council of Dentists warned that the condition of the tongue makes patients suspect various diseases, including anemia, fungal pathologies, autoimmune diseases and liver problems. The tongue is a highly vascularized, mostly muscular organ that has several vital roles and functions in the human body. And although it is not given too much importance in general, it is necessary for various functions, such as phonation and communication, chewing, swallowing, tasting, cleaning and lubricating the oral cavity. So, a pale tongue can be a sign of anemia, which is characterized by a decrease in red blood cells or a lack of iron in the body. In contrast, fungal infections such as stomatitis can cause a white coating on the tongue and mucous membranes. Liver problems can lead to jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and sometimes the tongue. On the other hand, some autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or Behçet’s disease, can lead to ulcers and sores on the tongue. In addition, a lack of vitamins A, B2 and C often causes inflammation of the tongue (glossitis). Vitamin deficiency, stress or hormonal changes can cause cracks in this organ, which is called the geographical tongue. However, if the tongue is red, swollen, or smooth, it could be a sign of a vitamin B12 deficiency, a condition that affects the production of red blood cells and the normal functioning of the nervous system. On the other hand, with heart pathologies and circulatory problems, the tongue acquires purple pigmentation. In diseases of the digestive system, this organ acquires a grayish tint due to an ulcer or reflux. Some bacterial infections, such as scarlet fever or syphilis, can cause changes in the tongue, such as a “strawberry” look or painful sores. Similarly, excessive consumption of tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and black tea can cause a condition called hairy tongue, which is characterized by a blackish color and hair on it, but which disappears when consumption of these products is stopped. . . . HOW TO MAINTAIN A HEALTH TONGUE President of the General Council of Dentists, Dr. Oscar Castro Reino, insists on the importance of keeping the tongue in good condition. “Proper oral hygiene is essential. In addition to brushing your teeth, you need to clean the surface of the tongue from bacteria and food debris that accumulate on it. To do this, it is recommended to use a tongue scraper or a special tongue brush designed to eliminate bacteria and food debris that can accumulate on the tongue, ”he recalled. Another tip is to avoid irritants such as broken teeth, ill-fitting crowns or dentures, and to avoid tobacco and alcohol. Similarly, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help avoid vitamin deficiencies that negatively affect the tongue. “In conclusion, language observation may be a useful complementary tool in the diagnosis of certain diseases and disorders. In case of any changes or unusual changes in the tongue, it is recommended to consult a dentist for an adequate diagnosis and treatment,” he concluded.
