What is Macroglossia and Its Causes?

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Macroglossia is known by several names, such as prolapses of the tongue and tongue hypertrophy, but the most common is the enlarged tongue. This condition can cause functional and cosmetic difficulties, including sleeping, swallowing, eating, and speaking. Although it is an uncommon condition, it often occurs in children. According to an expert on oral pathology in Coral Springs, FL, macroglossia's exact cause remains unknown because of the numerous possible causes. We’ve narrowed down the most common symptoms and causes you need to be aware of if you think you or your kid has macroglossia.

Do I need an oral surgeon in Coral Springs, FL?

Symptoms and Causes of Macroglossia

What are the Symptoms?

Most people don’t know they have macroglossia because the symptoms are not that noticeable. To determine whether you have this condition, schedule an appointment with your dentist or oral pathologist if you notice the following symptoms:

  • Protruding Tongue – this makes your mouth vulnerable to necrosis, infection, ulceration and drying out
  • Mouth Breathing – if you find yourself continually breathing through your mouth, you may have macroglossia
  • Mandibular Prognathism
  • Orthodontic Abnormalities – examples of which are tooth spacing, a diastema, and open bite
  • Dysphonia – voice impairment or difficulty speaking
  • Dysphagia – difficulty in eating and swallowing
  • Dyspnea – obstructive sleep apnea

What are the Causes?

As stated earlier, macroglossia has a lot of causes. There are acquired and congenital causes. The commonly known acquired causes are diabetes, hypothyroidism, typhoid, pneumonia, tuberculosis, rheumatic fever, smallpox, and exposure to traumatic surgery. As for congenital causes, they usually include lingual thyroid, Down syndrome, hemangioma, and lymphangioma.

Where can I find a good oral surgeon in Cora Springs, FL?

Cost-Effective and Accurate Oral Pathology in Coral Springs, FL

In most instances, surgeons will examine and evaluate the symptoms and causes you have experienced. Furthermore, they will take an in-depth look at your medical history. Therefore, if you want to determine what type of dental disease you have, you need to remember as many details as possible about your medical history. Through these examinations and evaluations, an expert can accurately identify the problem and draw a plan. To know whether you have macroglossia, get in touch with our professional today at Oral Facial Reconstruction and Implant Center.