A fissured tongue is exactly like the name describes a tongue with fissures on its surface. It is not a cause for concern, and it is considered a normal variation. Fissured tongue affects roughly five percent of the population. It affects men slightly more than women. This condition occurs during childhood; however, it is more prominent in adults. Fissures may become more defined with age.
While the exact cause is not known, it may be inherited. Fissured tongue may accompany these other conditions:
Geographic tongue: This is a condition that commonly shows up with fissured tongue. This condition is not a serious issue, and there are no significant side effects.
Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome: This is a rare condition causing swelling of the lips and face. Additionally, it causes periodic facial paralysis and a fissured tongue.
A dental crown is used to strengthen a weak tooth or to restore a tooth that is heavily damaged. A tooth with a lot of decay should not have many dental fillings because there is an increased risk of the dental fillings failing. It is best for that tooth to have a dental crown instead. A weak tooth that is prone to fracturing becomes stronger when a dental crown is placed on top. Dental crowns are also placed on top of dental implants. However, the process requires two dental visits and a temporary dental crown is placed in between the visits.
If you have traditional dental braces or are considering getting them, there are a few things you should know. Unlike other orthodontic treatment options such as Invisalign, metal braces cannot be removed by the wearer. This presents some small challenges when it comes to eating certain foods, and keeping your teeth clean.
Gingivitis is commonly known as gum disease and affects gum tissue. Gingivitis is reversible with regular oral care. However, untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. Periodontitis involves the permanent loss of gum and bone tissue in the mouth. Additionally, untreated periodontitis causes tooth loss.
The benefits of good oral health are vital for a number of reasons. Most people know common benefits such as fresh breath and healthy gums. However, a study published in the Journal of Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology gives another reason for good oral health. The study shows that women with severe gum disease are up to three times more likely to develop breast cancer.
A canker sore is an ulcer that occurs in the mouth every once in a while. Also referred to as aphthous stomatitis in medical terms. It is a small ulcer that ranges from being mildly painful to very painful for some patients. Canker sores can be minor or significant in severity. Canker sores have a little yellow or white centre with a red border.