From Color to Texture: What Your Tongue Can Reveal About Your Health
The human tongue is an incredible organ. It plays a crucial role in our ability to taste and swallow and provides valuable insights into our overall health, especially our oral health. In fact, your tongue can act as a sort of barometer for what’s happening inside your body. COLOR A healthy tongue should be pink and fairly uniform in color. If you notice red or white patches, this may indicate various issues. A reddish tongue could be a sign of a vitamin deficiency or a condition called “strawberry tongue,” often associated with strep throat or other conditions. A white coating on your tongue could suggest oral thrush or a bacterial buildup. TEXTURE Your tongue should have a somewhat velvety texture. It may indicate irritation, allergies, or more serious conditions such as oral cancer if it becomes excessively rough or bumpy. Keep an eye on any unusual changes in texture. FISSURES AND CRACKS Small fissures on the tongue’s surface are generally normal. However, deep, painful cracks could signify a fungal infection
or a more severe condition. Make sure to monitor any unusual or persistent cracks and seek dental advice if necessary.
PATCHES AND SORES Cold sores and canker sores on your tongue are common. However, any persistent sores or patches that don’t heal could indicate oral cancer or another significant health concern. LINGUAL PAPILLAE The surface of your tongue is covered in small, hair-like structures known as papillae. Sometimes, these papillae can become inflamed or enlarged, causing a condition known as “black hairy tongue.” This condition is often harmless but can be unsightly and may be linked to poor oral hygiene or certain medications. Regular brushing and tongue cleaning can help resolve it. In addition to monitoring your tongue’s condition at home, regular dental check-ups in our office are essential to maintain good oral health. Remember that your tongue is a valuable indicator of your overall well-being, so pay close attention to any changes or irregularities and give us a call with any concerns!
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Inspired by TheModernProper.com
SKILLET CHICKEN POT PIE
The perfect winter dinner, this chicken pot pie doesn’t disappoint!
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup butter • 1 cup sliced celery • 1 cup chopped onion • 2 cups sliced carrots • 1/2 cup flour • 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper • 1/2 tsp celery seed • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 cup milk • 2 cups chicken stock • 2 cups peas
• 4 cups cooked chicken • 1 package frozen
puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg
1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. In 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes. 3. Add flour, salt, pepper, celery seed, and garlic powder to pan and stir. Sauté for 2 minutes. Slowly incorporate milk. 4. Add stock and bring to a simmer, whisking until mixture thickens. Add peas and chicken. 5. Roll out pastry sheet into 16-inch square on floured surface. Cut into 3-inch squares and place overlapping onto chicken mixture. 6. In a small bowl, whisk egg with 1 tbsp water. Brush egg over pastry and place in oven for 25 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Directions
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