Geographic Tongue Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Geographic tongue is an inflammatory condition of the tongue, usually appearing on the top surface or sides of the tongue.
People with a geographic tongue will experience that the tongue feels smooth, red in color, and is shaped like islands like a geographic map.
Although it looks alarming, this situation is not dangerous. Generally, the tongue will look reddish in the affected area and will be bordered by irregular white lines.
This inflammation often heals in one area, but then moves or migrates to other areas of the tongue. Geographic tongue is also known as benign migratory glossitis.
| Doctor | Dentist |
| Symptoms | Inflammation resembles island redness on the tongue |
| risk factor | Genetics, psoriasis condition |
| diagnosis | Examination of the tongue directly |
| Treatment | Not needed |
| Drug | Not needed |
| Complications | There isn’t any |
| When to see a doctor? | Symptoms of a reddish island appear on the tongue |
Symptoms
A geographic tongue does not always cause symptoms. Some people who experience it are not even aware that there has been a change in their tongue and only realize it after a doctor’s examination.
Geographic tongue disease can be seen with the following signs and features:
- A smooth, red, island-shaped rash
- The rash is clearly demarcated and white
- Irregular rash
- The rash may disappear but can move to other areas
- There is sensitivity or high sensitivity to certain substances, such as hot, spicy or sour foods, cigarette smoke, and toothpaste
- Discomfort or burning sensation on the tongue or in the mouth in some cases, especially with regard to spicy or sour foods.
- In some cases, geographic tongue makes the tongue look cracked. These two things often happen together. This condition causes cracks on the surface of the tongue so that sometimes it will be annoying and painful.
Reason
The cause of geographic tongue is not known with certainty. However, these non-communicable diseases often run in families.
In addition, someone with certain health conditions can trigger geographic tongue, such as psoriasis, vitamin deficiencies, and allergies.
Risk Factors
Several factors can trigger this condition, such as:
Influence of genes or family history
People who have family members with a history of geographic tongue are more at risk of experiencing this later in life.
Psoriasis
Those with skin conditions like this are quite likely to experience geographic tongue. Some researchers say this syndrome is another form of oral psoriasis. However, more in-depth research is needed to confirm this.
Hormonal influence
Hormones are thought to be the triggers for a geographic tongue, starting from stress, psychological factors, and allergies, to pregnancy. In this condition, the fetus absorbs a lot of nutrients from the mother. The mother could be deficient in vitamins and experience symptoms such as geographic tongue.
Lack of B vitamins
Conditions lacking vitamin B are prone to inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms on the tongue, including geographic tongue conditions
Diagnosis
The dentist will determine the diagnosis of geographic tongue by clinical examination and examination of other signs that appear.
Tests by touch or palpation can be done to check the condition and changes that occur, such as the texture or consistency of the tongue.
Treatment
Generally, geographic tongue treatment is not necessary because it is a benign condition that can go away on its own without treatment.
However, some treatments can help relieve symptoms, such as:
- Painkillers that can be purchased at pharmacies
- The doctor may prescribe a mouthwash that contains an anesthetic so it can reduce pain and irritation
- Ointments containing corticosteroids
- B vitamin supplements for some cases
- Avoid foods that can cause irritation or a burning sensation such as hot, spicy or sour foods
- Avoid toothpaste that contain whitening ingredients or that are heavily scented
Prevention
There are no specific things that can be done to prevent geographic tongue.
However, you are advised to reduce consumption of spicy or sour foods, hot foods or drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages and tobacco.
Complications
Generally, there are no complications due to geographic tongue.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience symptoms and signs such as geographic tongue, consult a dentist immediately. Especially if you find reddish islands on the surface of the tongue.