Does your tongue get shorter as you age? Dispelling the myth
The idea that your tongue shrinks or gets shorter with age is a common misconception. In fact, studies on age-related tongue changes have shown that the size of the tongue generally does not decrease and can even slightly increase in some cases, though its structure changes significantly. The perception of a 'shorter' tongue may arise from changes in muscle function and surrounding oral structures, rather than an actual reduction in length.
The real science behind an aging tongue
Contrary to a simple size change, the tongue's aging process is complex, involving shifts in muscle properties and function. Like other muscles in the body, the tongue is not immune to sarcopenia—the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. However, the tongue is unique because it's a cranial muscle with properties that differ from limb muscles.
- Muscle Fiber Composition: Research using animal models has revealed a shift in intrinsic tongue muscles from faster-contracting muscle fibers to slower-contracting ones with age. This transition contributes to a decline in peak strength and coordination, which is a major factor affecting swallowing function in older adults.
- Force and Endurance: Multiple studies confirm that tongue strength and endurance decline with healthy aging. This can be measured using tools like the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) and has been linked to potential swallowing disorders, or dysphagia.
- Muscle Atrophy: While the tongue as a whole does not atrophy in the same way as limb muscles, a replacement of muscle tissue with fat or fibrous tissue can occur, impacting function. This age-related change in muscle texture can contribute to weaker performance.
Comparing age-related tongue and limb muscle changes
| Feature | Tongue Muscles | Limb Muscles |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Fiber Changes | Shift from fast-contracting to slow-contracting fibers. Fiber size can change in certain intrinsic muscles. | Significant decrease in muscle fiber size and overall muscle mass after middle age. |
| Sarcopenia Effects | Manifested as reduced strength, coordination, and endurance, potentially leading to dysphagia. | Leads to a more general decline in force generation, walking speed, and overall physical activity. |
| Resistance to Atrophy | The tongue's constant activity and abundant blood supply may help maintain its mass and function better than limb muscles. | More susceptible to significant atrophy with disuse and age. |
| Functional Impact | Primarily affects oral functions like swallowing and chewing. | Impacts mobility, balance, and overall physical independence. |
Other common age-related changes to the tongue
Beyond muscle performance, several other factors contribute to how the tongue feels and functions with age:
- Fissured Tongue: The development of deep grooves or wrinkles on the surface of the tongue is common with age and is generally harmless, though it can trap bacteria and food debris if not cleaned properly.
- Decreased Taste Sensation: The number of taste buds on the tongue decreases over time, and the remaining ones may shrink. This can lead to a reduced sensitivity to certain tastes, especially salty and sweet flavors.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): A decrease in saliva production, often a side effect of medications, is common in older adults and affects the sense of taste. A drier mouth can also contribute to a burning sensation on the tongue.
- Atrophic Glossitis: This condition causes the tongue to appear smooth and glossy due to the loss of papillae, and can be linked to nutritional deficiencies such as B12 or iron.
- Black Hairy Tongue: More common in older individuals, this condition involves an overgrowth of the filiform papillae, which can trap bacteria and cause discoloration.
Conclusion: The complexity of an aging tongue
In summary, your tongue does not get shorter with age. The misconception stems from the numerous functional and structural changes that occur over time. While the tongue may not shrink, it does experience a decline in muscle strength and endurance, a shift in fiber composition, and surface changes like fissuring and papillae loss. These changes can collectively affect functions like swallowing and taste sensation. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing potential nutritional deficiencies are important steps to support tongue health as you age. For serious issues, consulting a healthcare provider or speech-language pathologist can help manage symptoms, especially those related to swallowing difficulties.
