Pink Tongue
A healthy tongue is usually pink with small bumps called papillae.
Causes of a healthy pink tongue:
* Good oral hygiene
* Normal blood circulation
* Healthy diet
* Good hydration
Sometimes very bright pink tongue may indicate:
* Vitamin B12 deficiency
* Iron deficiency
* Fever or irritation
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Yellow Tongue
A yellow tongue often happens because of bacteria, dead skin cells, or dry mouth.
Possible causes:
* Poor oral hygiene
* Smoking
* Dry mouth
* Dehydration
* Fever
* Excess coffee or tea
* Some mouthwashes
* Beginning of “black hairy tongue”
Sometimes linked to:
* Digestive problems
* Acid reflux
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Brown Tongue
A brown tongue is usually caused by staining or buildup on the tongue.
Common causes:
* Smoking or tobacco
* Coffee or tea
* Poor oral hygiene
* Certain medications
* Dry mouth
* “Hairy tongue” condition
Rare causes:
* Fungal infection
* Severe dehydration
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Black Spots / Black Tongue
Black spots or a black tongue can look scary but are often harmless.
Possible causes:
* Black hairy tongue
* Smoking
* Poor oral hygiene
* Antibiotics
* Excess bacteria or fungus
* Heavy coffee or tea drinking
* Tobacco chewing
Rare serious causes:
* Oral disease
* Tissue damage
* Some medical conditions
Symptoms may include:
* Bad breath
* Hairy appearance
* Bad taste in mouth
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Red Tongue
A red tongue may signal inflammation or nutritional problems.
Possible causes:
* Vitamin B12 deficiency
* Iron deficiency
* Allergies
* Fever
* Infection
* Spicy or hot foods
Diseases associated:
* Scarlet Fever
* Kawasaki Disease
* Geographic tongue
Strawberry tongue:
Very red tongue with enlarged bumps.
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White Tongue
A white tongue usually means there is a coating on the tongue.
Common causes:
* Poor oral hygiene
* Dry mouth
* Smoking
* Dehydration
* Irritation
Other causes:
* Oral thrush (fungal infection)
* Fever
* Leukoplakia
White patches that do not disappear should be checked by a doctor.
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When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if:
* The color lasts more than 2 weeks
* Pain or burning exists
* Difficulty eating or swallowing
* Bleeding
* Large dark spots
* White patches that cannot be removed
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Tips for a Healthy Tongue
* Brush the tongue gently
* Drink enough water
* Avoid smoking
* Reduce excess coffee and sugary foods
* Visit a dentist regularly
