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Zamora explains that when people who regularly rely on inhalers don't wash their mouth after each use, “then fungus can actually grow because you're creating a more

immunocompromised state by constantly [being exposed] to things like steroids just through an inhaler.” Wearing dentures and having dry mouth can also increase your risk for oral thrush.

Reach out to your health care provider if you think you have it; an antifungal medication may be needed. A condition known as leukoplakia could also be to blame for white patches on the

tongue. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the cause is unknown, but irritation from tobacco or alcohol may be an explanation. A weakened immune system could also be to

blame, and age is another risk factor. Leukoplakia usually doesn't lead to permanent damage in the mouth, but it can increase your risk of oral cancer, so it's best to consult a

health care provider if you recognize its symptoms. Finally, some people have reported a coated or patchy-looking tongue as a symptom of COVID-19, according to the ZOE Health Study, which

collects data on COVID-19 symptoms through an app. Researchers say, however, that reports of tongue and mouth changes were more common earlier in the pandemic, before vaccines and boosters

were widely available. A DRY OR SWOLLEN TONGUE Your doctor may be able to tell if you’re dehydrated just by looking in your mouth. When you stick out your tongue, “there should be some sort

of glare,” Zamora says. “Sometimes light bounces off the tongue, but if it's very dry, you may only see some buildup of saliva” or a cracked tongue. A dry mouth, which can also be a

side effect of medication, can have some oral health implications, including tooth decay, Karimbux says. “Because saliva kind of bathes the teeth, and when you lose that … you can be more

prone to getting cavities,” he says. If you notice your tongue looking puffier than normal, especially after a meal, “you may be developing an allergy,” says Zamora, who adds that a

scratchy feeling in the back of the throat can also signal an allergic reaction. It’s also possible to be allergic to some toothpastes and mouthwashes, so start cataloging everything you put

in your mouth. LOSS OF TASTE If you suddenly can’t taste your favorite flavors, a viral infection could be the reason for your muted meals. The flu and common cold can cause the symptom —

even aging can take its toll on the taste buds. Loss of taste is also one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

CRACKED CORNERS OF THE MOUTH Dry and scaly lips are common in the cold winter months, but if they’re cracked at the corners, don’t be so quick to blame the weather. “It could actually

indicate a vitamin deficiency,” Zamora says — specifically vitamin B2 (riboflavin). “So they may need to take riboflavin or a multivitamin,” she adds. Riboflavin can also be found in

fortified breakfast cereals, yogurt, milk, beef and clams.