MACROGLOSSIA

Macroglossia is a condition that is seen in many individuals. It presents itself as large and heavy tongues which are not normal in size. It can be congenital which is present from birth or can be acquired later in life. So today we will talk in detail about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of macroglossia to let you guys know more about it. 

The causes of macroglossia vary in terms of being acquired later or present from birth. Congenital causes include Down syndrome which has the defect of having an extra chromosome or neurofibromatosis in which tumors grow into the nervous tissue or individuals having congenital hypothyroidism. Acquired reasons may include hypothyroidism in which the thyroid function becomes less and do not produce enough thyroid for the development of the body. It can also occur due to Diphtheria in which bacterial infection can spread to others and can be prevented by taking a vaccine for it. Tuberculosis and sarcoidosis are other causes of having macroglossia which results in impairment of the body’s functions. 

The symptoms of macroglossia include proclination of teeth or protruding teeth along with misaligned teeth or crowding in the teeth. It also causes Interference with eating and also Interference with speaking or snoring in many cases. High pitched breathing is also a common cause of macroglossia. 

Macroglossia can be diagnosed by doing a physical examination on the patients and then determining the underlying cause of the patient. Appropriate medical testing should be performed to have a clear view of the status of the diseases in the body. Since there are many causes that can lead to this condition, several tests will be needed which your doctor can only explain to you. 

Treatments of Macroglossia include first checking the causes and severity of the condition.  In normal cases where the tongue is not that enlarged then medicating the individual for the particular cause can help. If the individual has hypothyroidism then regulating the thyroid functions can help in treating this condition. Mild cases also involve speech therapy which can target the tongue movements and muscles for improving its function. Surgeries can be done in severe cases to reduce the size of the tongue and it also helps in the betterment of the functions such as speech, chewing. Other treatments include getting a dental appointment for a quick consultation and getting appliances that can help individuals with macroglossia. 

We at Todays Dental provide you with many services related to your oral health care. If you want to book an appointment with us for yourself or your family then please contact us to get started.