How important is Tongue?   

What determines a healthy tongue?  

A uniform pink coloring with no deeper red, yellow, or white discoloration is a strong indicator of a healthy tongue (and body). However, if you see a white film coating on the topside, studies and researchers say it’s not a cause for concern and is typically just temporary. This film is made up of bacteria, dead cells, and food waste, and it turns your tongue shiny. During a dental check-up, your dentist will usually search for spots of discoloration that may be troublesome – and an early warning sign that your tongue bacteria signal a more significant health issue. Oral cancer may grow from leukoplakia, which appears as a white patch on your tongue. 

Why should you brush your tongue? 

Drinking coffee turns your tongue brown, while drinking wine makes it red. The fact is that your tongue is just as susceptible to bacteria as your teeth, even though it is not at risk of developing cavities. According to multiple studies performed by dentists throughout the world, bacteria will multiply in the tongue between the taste buds and other tongue structures. Your tongue is the reason why you imagine your favourite food! It’s your tongue that defines tastes and in order for it to keep sensing different tastes it is very important that you brush your tongue too. These days toothbrushes come with tongue cleaners but if your tongue does not have one, you can use tongue cleaners easily available in the market. 

How to clean the tongue? 

It would be best if you brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth. It’s pretty simple: 

Brush back and forth 
Brush side to side 
Rinse your mouth with water 
Be careful not to over brush, though, since that causes the skin on the surface of the tongue to break. 
You can also consult with a dentist about the best oral rinses for your condition. Many mouth rinses cut almost all bacteria, ridding you of both the good and bad 
What happens if you do not brush your tongue? 

BAD BREATH 
The first and most prominent problem you will start to experience if you do not brush your tongue, is bad breath. The harmful bacteria in the mouth will fight the good bacteria and prevent them from keeping your breath fresh. 

INABILITY TO PROPERLY TASTE FOOD AND DRINKS
Suppose you do choose to leave the bacteria on your tongue. In that case, it will eventually start to form something that is known as a biofilm(as aforementioned, it is a layer of bacteria formed on the tongue). That biofilm can drastically alter the efficiency of your taste buds, and you will not be able to taste a thing. 

TONGUE CAN AND MAY DEVELOP A BLACK HAIRY SPOT
Bacteria on the tongue is very sticky. Food and drink particles get stuck on the bacteria. If this bacterium is not removed while the time is still correct, it will transition into a fuzzy-looking spot on your tongue.  

YEAST INFECTION
The disease is known as oral thrush or yeast infection can often develop when the bacteria in the mouth are left to multiply. And as we all know, the only way to treat a fungal infection is to get an antifungal medication prescribed from a dentist. 

ADVANCED GUM DISEASE
Furthermore; Gum disease, both minor and severe, is caused by the bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria can cause your gums to appear swollen, red, and irritated somewhat along the lines of diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis. 

FINAL NOTE: 

Now that you are aware of the risks associated with not taking care of your tongue, make sure to follow the tips by brushing your teeth and tongue along with flossing regularly. Do visit the dentist if you find something unusual with your overall oral health. Remember, you tongue defines tastes, keep you tongue clean and healthy to and enjoying having lip-smacking food