Tongues play a huge role in the functionality of the mouth! They are a fascinating part of the body that not a lot of people know much about. Here are our favorite top three facts about tongues that you may not know!
1. Tongues Have 8 Muscles
The tongue is a flexible set of 8 muscles that work in unison to give it full functionality. Because the tongue is made up of 8 muscles, it is able to perform it’s natural duties throughout the day without muscle spasms or fatigue.
2. Taste Buds Cover the Entire Tongue
Taste buds aren’t just located at the front or back of the tongue, they are all over! In fact, each tongue has anywhere from 2,000 to 10,000 taste buds. Taste Buds will die off and regenerate, which helps keep your taste sharp and on point.
3. The Color of Tongues Can Indicate Potential Health Issues
The color of your tongue can be an indicator of health. When someone is healthy, the tongue will be a nice pink color. If the tongue turns a bright red, it could be an indication of infection. If the tongue has white patches on it, it can also be a sign of an underlying health problem.
How to Keep Your Tongue Healthy & Strong
When you think of caring for your smile, your tongue may not cross your mind. You only have one tongue, so just like your teeth, it’s important to take great care of it to keep it functioning at its full capability. There are many ways you can care for your tongue, such as:
Brush your tongue when you brush your teeth:
Brushing your tongue or using a tongue scraper can help remove any bacteria, mucus, or debris that are sitting on your tongue. Not only does this help keep your tongue clean, but it also helps minimize odors and bad breathMonitor your tongue’s coloring:
As mentioned above, the color of your tongue gives you a view into your overall health. If your tongue changes colors or loses its pink tint, it’s important to speak to your doctor right awayStay hydrated:
Drinking plenty of water helps reduce the risk of dry mouth and keeps the mouth’s pH balance stable to prevent bacteria growth on the teeth and tongueSwish salt water:
Warm salt water is a great way to help reduce inflammation and get rid of any bacteria inside the mouth
We Can Help with Tongue Health!
If you have any questions or concerns about your tongue health, we can help! At Growing Smiles Pediatric and Family Dentistry, we focus on treatment plans that encompass your entire oral health, including your tongue! Please contact our office to schedule your appointment.