If someone asked you about good oral health or dental hygiene, you would probably say something about how important it is to brush your teeth twice a day or how you need to floss your teeth to avoid gum disease. You might even mention the importance of visiting your dental professional in Corona, CA, twice a year for dental cleanings. However, not many people would talk about the color of a healthy tongue, would they?
What Is a Healthy Tongue Color?
Interestingly, the color of your tongue can give you important information about your dental and overall health. If your tongue is healthy, it should be a shade of pink, ranging from light pink to dark pink, and it’s normal for your tongue to have small bumps on it. These bumps, known as papillae, aid in speaking, chewing, and swallowing.
What Do Other Tongue Colors Mean?
If your tongue is not pink, you may have a health condition that requires medical attention. If you’re unsure what your tongue color means, it is always best to call your doctor. Some of the different tongue colors and the potential health concerns associated with them include the following:
- White tongue – If your tongue is white, it could mean you have a fungal infection known as oral thrush.
- Yellow tongue – If your tongue is yellow, it could mean you have too much bacteria in your mouth due to poor oral hygiene.
- Orange tongue – An orange tongue can also indicate poor oral hygiene.
- Red tongue – If your tongue is red, you could have a food allergy, vitamin deficiency, or what is known as geographic tongue. Geographic tongue is a harmless condition that got its name because the red patches on the tongue look like land masses on a map.
- Gray tongue – A gray tongue can also indicate geographic tongue.
Do You Need a Dentist in Corona, CA?
At Dental Care of Corona, we make your oral health our top priority. We are here to answer any questions you may have, so feel free to contact us at (951) 268-9858 if you want to speak to a dental team member. We look forward to hearing from you!