Your tongue isn’t just for tasting your favorite ice cream or helping you chat away; your tongue plays a huge role in keeping your mouth healthy. There are other functions your tongue performs that you might not know about, and it deserves a bit more attention from all of us.
The Tongue: A Key Sensory and Speech Organ
Your tongue is like a super sensor, packed with thousands of taste buds that let you enjoy different flavors. But there’s more – it’s also a key player in how you talk. Sometimes, dentists might not talk much about how your tongue affects your speaking, but if your tongue’s movement is restricted (a condition called tongue-tie), it can really affect your speech. This is very important for children, so we keep an eye out for it during check-ups.
Why Your Tongue’s Position Matters
The way your tongue sits in your mouth can affect more than you might think. From how your teeth line up to how you breathe, your tongue’s posture matters. If your tongue’s always in the wrong spot, you could end up with teeth issues, sleep apnea, or trouble breathing properly.
Cleaning Your Tongue
Brushing and flossing might be part of your daily routine, but what about tongue cleaning? Keeping your tongue clean is key to stopping bacteria in its tracks, fighting off oral infections, and even beating bad breath. A quick scrape or brush on your tongue can make a big difference in your mouth’s health.
Your tongue is a major component of your oral health, from helping you enjoy food to making sure you can speak clearly and keeping your mouth disease-free. As your dental team, we’re here to make sure your tongue gets the care it deserves, making sure you’re smiling bright and feeling great. Let’s not forget about our tongues when we’re taking care of our teeth and gums!
If you have any concerns about your tongue, please call us at 828.631.3283 or click here to make an appointment request online.
Sincerely,
David S. McGuire, DDS
