Have you ever wondered why doctors and dentists ask you to open wide and say, "Ahhhh?" It's true that dentists are looking for cavities and tooth-related problems, but the tongue and other soft tissues can also be an important indicator of a patient's overall health. Diseases such as diabetes, AIDS, scarlet fever, and different vitamin [...]
Whenever you find yourself brushing or flossing in front of a mirror, take the opportunity to really look inside your mouth. Self-Examination is the first line of defense in detecting potential problems... and the earlier, the better! Open wide and look at all the soft tissues, watching for any unusual changes such as unexplained white [...]
Traditionally, doctors and dentists have depended on the tongue to help them diagnose various diseases. And tongues do have a lot to say. For example, scarlet fever is accompanied by a spotted "strawberry" tongue. Burning tongue, a very painful condition, affects primarily post-menopausal women and can reflect systemic problems. Hairy leukoplakia is a common AIDS-related [...]
Self Examinations can Spot Signs of Trouble Through the day, you check the mirror—your hair, your collar, your hem. Ever open your mouth to see what's inside? You should, and not just when you feel pain or find blood on your toothbrush. You should routinely examine your oral orifice for any changes. Watch for red [...]
