Filiform papillae are small, thread-like projections on the tongue that do not contain taste buds.

The average person has about 10,000 taste buds.

Umami is a savory taste that is often associated with foods such as meat, cheese, and mushrooms.

The tip of the tongue is most sensitive to sweet tastes.

The sides of the tongue are most sensitive to sour tastes.

The sides of the tongue are most sensitive to salty tastes.

The base of the tongue is most sensitive to bitter tastes.

Saliva helps to dissolve food particles, lubricate the tongue, and help taste buds regenerate.

The capsaicin in spicy foods activates TRPV1 receptors on the tongue, which sends a signal to the brain that is interpreted as heat.

Ageusia is the condition in which people cannot taste anything.

Hypogeusia is the condition in which people have a decreased sense of taste.

Dysgeusia is the condition in which people have a distorted sense of taste.

Anosmia is the condition in which people cannot smell anything.

Taste and smell are closely related senses. The flavors of many foods are actually a combination of taste and smell.

Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol can all help to improve your sense of taste.