Plaque on the tongue can indicate insufficient or excessive oral hygiene, can be a symptom of dental diseases, or can indicate diseases of internal organs.
If you are faced with such a problem as plaque on the tongue, it makes sense to find out what the cause is, and how to treat it if the problem already exists. And if only a doctor will tell you about the depth of the problem and its nature after the examination, then we will analyze the main features of plaque on the tongue with you in this article.
Possible reasons
Firstly, let’s outline what the main reasons can be associated with plaque. Including:
- Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Insufficient or ineffective cleaning of the oral cavity can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and dead cells, which leads to the formation of plaque. Excessive hygiene can also cause plaque on the tongue.
- Bacterial or Fungal Infections: Some bacterial or fungal infections can cause a white or colored coating on the tongue, such as thrush or candidiasis.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or using tobacco can cause changes in the condition of the tongue and the formation of plaque.
- Dry Mouth: Not having enough saliva can lead to dry mouth and plaque formation. This can happen due to certain medical conditions or taking certain medications.
- Eating Habits: Some foods or drinks can leave plaque or discolor the tongue. For example, coffee or blueberries can leave a dark coating.
If the plaque on the tongue is accompanied by other symptoms or persists for a long time, it is important to see a doctor or dentist for diagnosis and to determine the cause. This will allow timely detection of possible medical or dental problems and start treatment.
When is plaque a symptom of a disease?
In most cases, if the plaque is insignificant and does not last for a long time, then it is not a symptom of the disease. However, in case of any doubts, or if there are red spots on the tongue, the wisest decision would be to consult a doctor. If you are wondering what a healthy tongue looks like, only a very slight coating is healthy.
The situation is much worse when the plaque lasts a long time and is extensive. Since there are different types of plaque, it can indicate completely different problems, so a doctor’s diagnosis is necessary. If the plaque on the tongue is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, itching, swelling, bleeding, and there is a long time, you need a diagnosis, because the problem can be serious.
Moreover, you can actually recognize a possible disease or health problem on the spot. For example, a different color of plaque can indicate different diseases: from infections with yellow plaque to general health problems with gray or black plaque.
If you can see traces of teeth on the plaque, it means that your body may not absorb nutrients well. If the color of your tongue is pale pink instead of healthy, you may lack vitamins.
Plaque on the tongue: how to get rid of it?
Treatment of problems related to plaque and spots on the tongue involves a set of measures aimed at improving oral hygiene and eliminating the causes of plaque formation. Thorough daily brushing of the teeth and tongue with a soft toothbrush, use of special tongue cleaners, and limiting risk factors such as coffee, tea, tobacco, or alcohol consumption can help effectively remove bacteria and reduce plaque.
Enriching your diet with foods that stimulate saliva production can also be helpful. In cases where plaque is associated with a specific disease or medical condition, treatment of the underlying disease may improve the condition of the tongue.
It is important to take into account that in case of suspicious plaque, or plaque that has been present for a long time, plaque on the root of the tongue, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor or dentist for a detailed examination and determination of optimal treatment.
Methods of treatment
Drug treatment of plaque-related problems can be aimed at eliminating the underlying cause, as well as at alleviating accompanying symptoms. For example, in cases where plaque is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection of the oral cavity, the doctor may recommend antibiotics or antifungal drugs.
Treatment may also include mouthwashes or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and irritation of the tongue. In cases of systemic diseases that can affect the condition of the tongue, the doctor can prescribe treatment aimed at controlling the underlying disease.
It is important to note that self-medication may be ineffective or even dangerous, so it is important to seek advice from a qualified medical professional before starting any treatment.
Is plaque always a dental problem?
Not always. Sometimes plaque indicates dental problems, and sometimes more general health problems. Plaque can also indicate diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, allergies, and other ailments.
For the most part, plaque on the tongue is a dental problem, as it can indicate various conditions of the oral cavity and general health. Plaque can occur as a result of poor oral hygiene, bacterial or fungal infections, mucosal diseases or other dental problems.
Regular hygiene, including brushing your teeth and tongue, can help prevent and manage this problem. In cases of prolonged plaque or associated symptoms, it is recommended to consult a dentist for a detailed examination and determination of optimal treatment.
How to determine a disease by language?
There are some common health problems that can cause plaque. Including:
- Bacterial Infections: The presence of bacteria on the tongue can indicate bacterial infections in the mouth, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Fungal Infections: White plaque can be a sign of fungal infections, such as candidiasis.
- Gastrointestinal Diseases: Certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastritis or reflux, can affect the condition of the tongue.
- Vitamin or Mineral Deficiencies: For example, a lack of B vitamins or iron can affect the condition of the tongue and lead to changes in plaque.
Conclusion
Plaque cannot be ignored, as in some cases it can only indicate poor nutrition, while in other cases your internal organs are suffering. You can’t take it seriously and passively follow only general health recommendations, because you don’t know what problem you are facing and how it will develop further.
Separately, it is worth noting that self-medication, as well as treatment with folk methods, in itself can be a serious threat, because instead of eliminating the problem, you only make the appearance of treatment, or treat the symptom. Folk remedies are not reliable or safe.
Take care of your health, consult a doctor on time, and take care of your health and oral hygiene every day. Health begins with good habits and self-care!