Care for Your Tongue

What are taste buds?

• Nerve endings in the mouth

• Tiny bumps on the tongue

• Muscles that help with chewing

• Small sensory organs on the tongue and other parts of the mouth

How many taste buds does an average person have?

• 20000

• 500

• 1000

• 10000

Why is oral hygiene important for the tongue?

• To prevent tooth decay and cavities.

• To improve taste sensation.

• To remove bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath and other oral health issues.

• To reduce the risk of oral infections.

How often should you clean your tongue?

• never

• once a month

• twice a week

• once a day

What is the main function of the tongue?

• Help with chewing, swallowing, and speaking.

• Protecting the teeth.

• Producing saliva.

• Tasting food.

Which taste sensation is detected by the taste buds on the sides of the tongue?

• sweet

• spicy

• bitter

• sour

What can cause a burning sensation on the tongue?

• Cold foods, cold beverages, dry mouth

• Sour foods, acidic beverages, poor oral hygiene

• Spicy foods, hot beverages, allergic reactions, oral infections, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medical conditions

• Sweet foods, sugary beverages, tongue injuries