Geographic tongue? The symptoms cause and treatment!

Table of contents


• - What is geographic tongue?
• - What does a geographic tongue look like?
• - What are the causes?
• - What is the treatment for geographic tongue?
• - What can I do to prevent geographical tongue?

Geographic tongue is a harmless condition that affects the upper surface of your tongue. Although it is a benign condition just like a hairy tongue, it can cause discomfort. What causes geographic tongue? And is it treatable? Read on quickly!

What is geographic tongue?

Geographic tongue, also called lingua geographica in the medical world, is a benign condition of the tongue. It involves an abnormal surface of the top and sides of the tongue. It is characterised by smooth spots interspersed with white areas and lines. This pattern resembles a map, hence the name ‘geographic tongue’. The condition occurs regularly. About 1 to 2% of the population suffers from it.

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What does a geographic tongue look like?

Despite looking strange, a geographic tongue is harmless and not contagious. Geographic tongue is on the upper surface of the tongue. These are smooth red spots surrounded by a white-grey batter. The red spots occur because the tongue papillae have become much smaller (atrophy). The red spots recover continuously and then reappear in a different place on the tongue.

What are the causes?

Doctors still do not know the exact cause of a geographic tongue. It does often occur within the same families. Genes and hereditary factor therefore probably play an important role in whether or not you get a geographic tongue. Symptoms may also get worse due to the following risk factors:

– Psoriasis (skin inflammatory condition);

– Atopic eczema

– Allergies (atopic eczema or hay fever);

– Diabetes;

– Anaemia;

– Diabetes;

– Hormonal fluctuations (menstruation, stopping the pill);

– Asthma;

– Stress;

– Highly spicy or acidic foods;

– Vitamin deficiency (too low a level of iron, zinc, folic acid or vitamin B).

What is the treatment for geographic tongue?

A geographic card tongue is usually easy to recognise. Therefore, further examination is usually not necessary. Apart from a burning sensation, there are usually no other symptoms. Although there is no known medicine or treatment for geographical tongue, doctors can use medication to relieve the pain during eating somewhat. Furthermore, it is advisable to buy toothpaste or toothpaste tablets suitable for sensitive mouths.

What can I do to prevent geographical tongue?

Sometimes you can prevent a geographical tongue. If there is a vitamin deficiency, it is advisable to supplement it with healthy food and aids such as tablets. In addition, it is wise to always take good care of your teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. Also, visit the dentist and dental hygienist twice a year. Use a toothpaste or toothpaste tablets suitable for sensitive teeth.

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Written by

Kim Schouten

In recent years, she has worked in various areas to improve oral health care for both young and old. Oral care is an essential part of daily care. This is because good oral care is not only important for the mouth, but also for overall health. Therefore, it is very important to create awareness and share knowledge about this.