The tongue

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As the largest organ in the oral cavity, the tongue not only plays a primary role in masticatory and speech function-it is also a significant indicator of health, demonstrating signs of both oral pathologies and diseases that can affect the entire body. Because no health care provider gets the opportunity to examine a patient's tongue as often as the dentist, it is essential for dentists to recognize when there may be a problem with the tongue and what the problem is. In addition to an overview of tongue anatomy and general diagnosis and treatment recommendations, this book contains an atlas of more than 50 specific diseases and health concerns that may present signs and symptoms in the tongue. Each is outlined in a quick-reference table describing etiology, prognosis, and more and is accompanied by photographs of different ways the condition can present. A true diagnostic aid, this guide will allow clinicians to identify and address any abnormality a patient s tongue may exhibit. 591 illustrations Contents 1. Introduction 2. Anatomy and Physiology of the Tongue 3. Normal Variations 4. Diagnostics 5. Changes to the Tongue 6. Treatment