What the tongue tells

Your tongue is a reflection of your digestive system, metabolic condition and the overall state of your body.

Maintaining a healthy tongue is just as important as maintaining strong teeth and gums. The build-up on the tongue is an indication of bacteria that causes bad breath, tooth decay and gum diseases. A healthy tongue is free of any discomfort such as pain, stinging, burning, swelling or numbness. It is moist, with a rough surface and has an evenly coloured pink surface overlaying pale red. A careful observation of the tongue, it’s colour and shape often gives an insight into the health conditions of the individual explains Dr Prathyusha M, consultant dental and cosmetic surgeon.