The tongue is an organ often taken for granted until it falls prey to an illness. Oral cancer (which is quite common in India), for example, can affect your quality of life significantly — as do many other ailments of the tongue.
If you experience symptoms that affect your tongue, your first step to quality treatment is knowing what doctor to see.
This article will guide you through various tongue specialists, factors to consider when choosing a doctor, and the importance of finding the right doctor.
Doctors Specializing in Tongue Problems
Here’s a rundown of four doctors who can help you diagnose and treat tongue problems.
1. General Physician
A general physician provides you with comprehensive healthcare and can diagnose common tongue problems. While they can guide the initial treatment phase, they will most likely recommend you to other specialists for issues beyond their scope of treatment.
2. Dentist
Dentists are highly trained in identifying oral health anomalies, including those affecting the tongue. They can detect conditions like oral thrush, geographic tongue, or potentially cancerous lesions during routine check-ups.
3. ENT Specialist
Otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) treat problems of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures. So, by extension, they treat tongue problems. They address issues from discomfort to diseases, helping restore the normal functioning of your tongue.
4. Oral Pathologist
Oral pathologists specialize in diagnosing and managing diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial (jaw and face) regions. Their expertise in interpreting oral biopsies can help with diagnosing serious tongue diseases like oral cancer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor
Consider the following when choosing your doctor:
- Experience: Doctors who’ve dealt with hundreds of cases related to the tongue will be in a better position to gauge the treatment you need. We recommend selecting a doctor with at least seven years of experience.
- Specialization: While going to a general physician will most likely be your first step in seeking treatment, understand that you might have to see a specialist who will diagnose and treat your condition better. For example, oral pathologists are experts in tongue cancer treatment and will be able to flesh out niche treatment options for you.
- Reputation: In addition to experience and specialization, your doctor should have a good reputation among his/her patients and peers. This ensures that you receive quality and ethical care.
Importance of Consulting the Right Doctors for Tongue Problems
If you face issues with taste, speech, and swallowing, see a doctor immediately. Chances are you’re facing a problem related to the tongue. Your options include seeing an otolaryngologist, dentist, or oral surgeon.
Early detection and diagnosis are key in preventing serious consequences. Neglecting or misdiagnosing tongue problems can be detrimental to your health, leading to worse problems.
That’s why it’s important for you to see the right doctor to ensure you get the appropriate treatment and preventative measures.
Common Tongue-Related Problems and Their Potential Impact on Daily Life
Here’s a list of common tongue-related problems and how they can affect your daily life:
- Oral thrush: This is a yeast infection that produces creamy white patches on the tongue. Symptoms include discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and impaired taste.
- Geographic tongue: This condition is characterized by smooth, red patches bordered by greyish-white ones. Symptoms include mild discomfort and sensitivity to certain foods, which can restrict your food options.
- Glossitis: This condition causes inflammation of the tongue, leading to swelling and changes in colour. Symptoms include discomfort and issues with chewing, swallowing, and speaking.
- Oral cancer: This is a cancer that develops in different areas of the tongue and the lining of the mouth and gums. Symptoms include tongue pain, lumps, or white patches. Besides serious health risks, it may impair speech and eating, leading to emotional distress.
- Burning mouth syndrome: This condition involves a burning sensation on the tongue, causing discomfort and altered taste. Chronic pain from this problem may lead to psychological distress and issues enjoying food, impacting the overall quality of life.
Get the Best Tongue Care at Ayu Health
From general physicians to dentists, ENT specialists, and oral pathologists, each doctor plays a unique role in taking care of your oral health. Recognize symptoms, seek timely intervention, and ensure your tongue’s health contributes positively to your overall well-being.
Are you or a loved one facing tongue-related ailments? We invite you to book an appointment with one of our specialists at Ayu Health Network of Hospitals.
Visit our website or contact us at +91 6366-100-800. Our dedicated team will help you find the care you deserve.
FAQs
What Kind of Doctor Do You See for Your Tongue?
You should see an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for tongue issues. They specialize in the ear, nose, throat, and related structures, including the tongue.
Is the Tongue Treated by an ENT?
Yes, the tongue is treated by an ENT because it’s part of the ear, nose, and throat system. A problem in the tongue is usually tied to issues in the ear, nose, or throat.
Do Dermatologists Deal with the Tongue?
No, dermatologists typically don’t treat the tongue. Their speciality lies in treating hair, nails, and skin.
Who Can Diagnose Tongue Problems?
Otolaryngologists, oral surgeons, and dentists can diagnose tongue problems. Each medical professional offers specific expertise on tongue-related problems.
Can You Go to a Dentist for Tongue Problems?
Yes, you can go to a dentist for tongue problems. They’re trained to identify issues like oral thrush, geographic tongue, or signs of oral cancer.
Can a Dentist Check Your Tongue?
Yes, a dentist can check your tongue. It’s usually a part of a routine dental examination to spot problems in your tongue.
References:
https://ayu.health/blog/can-oral-sex-cause-throat-cancer/
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/mouth-cancer/getting-diagnosed/tests/biopsy
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4800664/
https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/health/story/387266-296709-2014-09-24
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4157273/
Our Hospital Locations
ENT Surgery Hospitals in Chandigarh | ENT Surgery Hospitals in Bangalore | ENT Surgery Hospitals in Jaipur | ENT Surgery Hospitals in NCR | ENT Surgery Hospitals in Hyderabad
Our Doctors
ENT Surgery Doctors in Chandigarh | ENT Surgery Doctors in Bangalore | ENT Surgery Doctors in Jaipur | ENT Surgery Doctors in NCR | ENT Surgery Doctors in Hyderabad
About the Author
Dr. S. Goel
Dr. S. Goel is a renowned Internal Medicine Specialist currently practicing at Ayu Health, Bangalore. He is a Specialist in Internal Medicine, Diabetes HTN, Paediatric Care, and Family Medicine.