What is a geographic tongue?
Dr. B. Kanagasabapathy
[M.D.S. (Ortho), Fellow ICOI]
Geographic tongue
Geographic tongue is a disorder that results in a map-like appearance on the tongue. Their tongue will be found soft, red patched encircled by white borders. Naturally, there will be tiny bumps called papillae, which will be missing on those red areas.
This condition is non-contagious and harmless. You can take pain relievers and avoid foods that harm your tongue if you experience any pain or discomfort. This is not a problem that occurs for a long period. It is not necessary to undergo any treatment for this problem. Always follow good oral hygiene by brushing properly including your tongue.
No. of peoples affecting:
It is not sure how many people affected by this problem, but it is believed that three percentages of people in the world suffer from this condition.
Who gets affected?
Geographic tongue is mostly found in young adults. A person who is already affected from psoriasis and reactive arthritis have more chance to get affected easily. However, geographic tongue may occur to all peoples including children and babies.
Causes of geographic tongue
There is no particular reason for the cause of geographic tongue. In fact, it may occur even due to genetics and run in families. There are some other conditions and diseases that may occur along with a geographic tongue. They are:
Psoriasis
Most people who already affected by psoriasis (red scaly patches have a high risk of getting affected by geographic tongue.
Birth control pills
Taking oral contraceptive pills or birth control pills are also a reason for the geographic tongue as it contains estrogen and progestin (female hormones)
Deficiency of vitamins
A person who lacks vitamin B6 and B12 is easily affected by the geographic tongue. Also, people who don’t have enough zinc, folic acid, and iron are also affected easily.
Diabetes
People who suffer from type-one diabetes have a higher risk of developing geographic tongue. People with other types of diabetes may also get affected. Also, know the link between your body and oral health.
Fissured tongue
Fissured Tongue is a condition where the tongue structure will be wrinkled. People affected by this problem may also get a geographical tongue. This factor occurs also due to genetic reasons.
Allergies
A person who suffers from hay fever, eczema, and other allergies easily gets affected to the geographical tongue.
Stress
Research says more emotional stress is also one of the reasons for the geographical tongue.
Symptoms for geographical tongue
Many people don’t experience any symptoms at all. The formation of a map-like pattern in the tongue is the most common sign of this condition. Some people may experience some symptoms that may come and go. They are:
Red patches on the tongue
Formation of irregular map-like red patches encircled by gray or white borders.
Burning sensation
Stinging or burning sensation on the tongue while eating
Patches in other areas
Similar red patches on the other areas of the mouth such as gums.
Lack of papillae
Due to the lack of papillae, the insides of the red patches look smoother. These papillae are responsible for protecting our tongue, and also it contains taste buds.
If you have any burning or stinging sensation, you should avoid eating the foods that are responsible for your tongue irritation. If you wish, you can visit a dentist and tell him about your symptoms to get the best solution.
