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Conditions of the Tongue

Conditions of the Tongue

Hairy Tongue

Hairy tongueHairy tongue is a benign change of the top surface of the tongue that is characterized by elongation of the many small nodules called papillae. It gets is name because the papillae resemble stubby hairs. The papillae can become stained from coffee, tea, colored soda, or bacteria. The cause is unknown but it is usually seen during antibiotic use, in smokers, in persons using stomach antacids, or in hospitalized and/or debilitated patients. Usually it is asymptomatic but may produce bad breath or cause a burning sensation. Treatment is to scrape the tongue, which will remove the papilla but the condition can recur.

Fissured Tongue

Fissured tongueFissured Tongue is a condition in which cracks or fissures are observed on the surface of the tongue. Food debris and some bacteria colonies may form in the fissures but this is almost always a condition with no symptoms. No treatment is necessary once it is properly diagnosed.

Geographic Tongue

Geographic tongueGeographic tongue gets its name from the map-like appearance on the surface or the tongue. This results from irregular, bare patches on its surface. The specific cause of geographic tongue is unknown, although it may occur due to irritation from hot or spicy foods, alcohol, or tobacco, or from allergies.

The pattern on the surface of your tongue may change very quickly. The pattern results from the loss of papillae. This gives areas of the tongue flat spots, and thus a geographic appearance. These areas of papillae loss are said to be denuded. The bare spots may last for more than a month but no treatment is usually necessary once it is properly diagnosed.

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Ace Dental Care, PC

Monday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday:

Closed

Friday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-3:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

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What Our Clients Say About Us

    "I would give her ten if I could. Dr. Williams has been my dentist for over twenty years. In that time, she has never broken an appointment with me. I am pretty type A when it comes to my teeth, and I like her because she always has great tips about how to take care of them. She is uber professional but has a good sense of humor. Her sense of humor is actually a pretty big deal when you have to sit with someone for an extended period of time. I've been in her chair for over an hour a couple of times. Once to get braces done and another time for a teeth whitening. Uncomfortable to say the least, but she went out of her way to ease the pain. I have not considered another Dentist ever since."

    Seun A.

    "Excellent Dentist"

    Mark S.

    "Dr. Williams is an excellent dentist! It's pretty evident that she cares about her patients and she always goes the extra mile. Every visit to her practice is pleasant...she's truly such a patient and kind doctor. Highly recommend!"

    Oluwaseyi A.

    "Dr. Williams is the best dentist ever! Not only does she take her time but she cleans your teeth personally. I love her individualized patient services."

    — David T.

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    — Thierry J.