When we think about oral health, it’s easy to remember our teeth and gums. But how often do we think about our tongues? Our tongues are also an important part of our oral health and deserve some attention.
Tongues are also incredibly interesting. Check out these five fun facts about your tongue!
Tastebuds are regenerated
Humans have between 2,000 and 10,000 tastebuds on their tongues! (If you have 10,000 tastebuds, you’re considered a “super” taster.) Tastebuds also regenerate approximately every 10 days. So, if you burn your tongue on a hot drink, don’t worry. You’ll have a set of new and fresh tastebuds in a few days!
Your tongue is a flexible muscle
Most people know that the tongue is muscle, but did you know it’s the most flexible muscle in the body? Since the tongue is all muscle and no bone, this allows it to have a great range of motion.
The tip of your tongue is very sensitive
The tip of your tongue is the most sensitive part of your body. This sensitivity serves two purposes. First, it allows us to detect anything undesirable in our food such as a bone or piece of hair. Second, it allows us to taste different flavors within our food, specifically sweet and salty flavors.
Your tongue protects you against germs
At the base of the tongue, there are defense cells known as the lingual tonsil. This is not the same as the tonsils in your throat but perform a similar function of defending the body against germs that may enter through the mouth.
Your tongue allows you to speak
The movement of the tongue and lips shape the airflow from our lungs into words. The tongue can produce more than 90 words per minute, using more than 20 different movements.
Our tongues are amazing and allow us to do so much. Take care of your oral health and tongue by booking your next dentist appointment! Call (573) 243-5200 or stop by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo., to get your appointment scheduled.