Is It Normal for the Left Tongue Base to Be Thicker Than the Right?

The left side of the tongue root is thicker than the right side?

I noticed that the left side of my tongue root appears thicker than the right side, but there are no sores.
Is this normal? Thank you.

A-Shen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/30

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The left side of the tongue root is thicker than the right side.
As long as there are no sores, swelling, or discomfort, and no difficulty swallowing, it should not affect oral health.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2015/12/30

More Info

It is not uncommon for individuals to notice asymmetries in various parts of their body, including the tongue. The observation that the left base of your tongue appears thicker than the right side can be attributed to several factors, and in many cases, it may not indicate a serious health issue.
Firstly, anatomical variations are quite common in the human body. Just as people may have one foot larger than the other or one ear positioned slightly differently, the tongue can also exhibit asymmetry. The muscles and tissues of the tongue are made up of a complex arrangement of fibers, and variations in muscle tone, fat distribution, or even the presence of minor swelling can lead to one side appearing thicker than the other.
In your case, since you mentioned there are no sores or lesions, and you are not experiencing any pain or discomfort, it is likely that this asymmetry is benign. However, it is important to consider other factors that could contribute to changes in the appearance of the tongue. For instance, dehydration can lead to a dry tongue, which may accentuate any existing asymmetry. Additionally, habits such as grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can affect the muscles of the tongue and surrounding areas, potentially leading to noticeable differences in size or shape.

Another aspect to consider is the possibility of inflammation or irritation. Conditions such as glossitis, which is inflammation of the tongue, can cause swelling and changes in texture. If you were to experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, or changes in color, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

If you are concerned about the asymmetry or if it changes over time, it would be prudent to seek an evaluation from a healthcare provider, such as a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination and determine if any underlying issues need to be addressed.
In summary, while it is not unusual for the left base of the tongue to appear thicker than the right, especially in the absence of other symptoms, it is always best to monitor any changes and consult a medical professional if you have concerns. Regular check-ups can help ensure that any potential issues are identified early and managed appropriately. Remember, your health is paramount, and being proactive about any changes you notice is a wise approach.

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