From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, the tongue is closely related to the various organs and meridians in the body.
The tongue is a mirror of human health, and changes in color, moisture, and texture can be important indicators of physical health. If the following six conditions appear on the tongue, it may be a potential disease signal that we should pay attention to.
1. The six disease signals reflected by the tongue.
The tongue coating is too thick. Normally, the surface of the tongue is covered with a thin layer of white tongue coating, but if the tongue coating becomes too thick and yellow, it may be related to spleen and stomach dysfunction and indigestion. This condition may indicate gastrointestinal problems such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, etc.
The tongue is abnormally colored.
The normal color of the tongue should be pale red or pink. If the tongue becomes unusually pale, it may be a sign of anemia; If it is obvious red, it may be related to malnutrition, mouth ulcers, etc.; The appearance of purple and dark colors may be a sign of circulatory problems, such as heart disease.
Cracks at the tip of the tongue. A crack in the tip of the tongue may be a sign of vitamin B2 and B12 deficiency. This condition is usually accompanied by ulcers on the lips and corners of the mouth, and relevant vitamins need to be supplemented in time.
Tooth marks on the edge of the tongue.
If tooth marks appear on the edges of the tongue, it could be a sign of a heart health problem. Cardiovascular disease can lead to circulatory problems that affect the blood flow to the tongue**.
There are tooth marks on both sides of the tongue.
Visible tooth marks on both sides of the tongue may be a sign of gastrointestinal problems. This may be related to indigestion, acid reflux, etc., and it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
Tongue ulcers. Ulcers on the surface of the tongue can be a sign of an oral disease, such as canker sores. At the same time, it may also be related to immune system problems, stress, malnutrition, etc., and the cause needs to be further investigated.
2. How to maintain oral health?
Brush your teeth regularly. Brushing your teeth is an essential step in oral health, at least once a day, in the morning and evening, using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. The correct way to brush your teeth includes brushing both the upper and lower jaws, and carefully brushing the surface, medial, and occlusal surfaces of your teeth. Change your toothbrush regularly, usually every three months.
Floss between your teeth.
Flossing removes food debris and plaque from between your teeth, preventing gum disease and tooth decay. Floss daily and gently clean between your teeth to ensure that the area between your teeth remains clean as well.
Choice of mouthwash.
Mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and keep your breath fresh. Choosing a fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. However, excessive use of mouthwash is also detrimental to oral health and is best used with the advice of a dentist.
Eat a balanced diet. Diet has a direct impact on oral health. Eat foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins C and D, such as dairy products, fish, fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in sugar and acid to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Control sugar intake.
Too much sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay. Reducing your intake of sugary drinks, sweets, and desserts, especially at night, can help reduce the incidence of tooth decay.
Regular oral check-ups.
Regular dental check-ups at the dentist are key to preventing oral problems. Professional oral examination can detect caries, periodontal disease and other problems early and carry out them in a timely manner.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol. Excessive consumption of tobacco and alcohol is a risk factor for oral cancer. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can help reduce the risk of oral cancer, while also having a positive impact on the health of your gums and oral tissues.
Avoid excessive wear and tear on your teeth.
Excessive teeth grinding can lead to tooth sensitivity and wear and tear, and even jaw joint disease. For people who grind their teeth easily, braces or mouth braces may be considered to slow down the grinding of teeth.
In conclusion, changes in the tongue can serve as an early sign of good health, but not all changes necessarily indicate disease. If an abnormality in the tongue is found, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor in time for a comprehensive physical examination to clarify the cause of the health problem and formulate a corresponding ** and conditioning plan.