Glossitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
In dentistry, inflammation of the surface of the tongue is also known as glossitis. This is a condition in which the tongue becomes swollen and enlarged. The tongue will also change color to reddish and there will be structural changes on the surface.
Glossitis can cause the tiny spots (papillae) that are on the surface of the tongue to disappear. When the condition is severe, this disease can cause pain and make it difficult to speak or eat.
There are several types of glossitis that can be found, including:
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Acute Glossitis
In this condition, inflammation occurs suddenly and causes pain. Usually appears due to an allergic reaction.
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Chronic glossitis
Inflammation that occurs on the tongue that can disappear and arise. Usually caused by a disease.
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Glossitis Atrofi
This inflammation is caused by changes in the color and texture of the tongue. Small spots on the tongue then also disappear so that the tongue looks shiny. This condition is also known as hunter glossitis.
Symptoms
Symptoms that arise can vary, depending on the cause of inflammation on the surface of the tongue. However, there are some common symptoms, such as:
- Pain and tenderness in the tongue
- There is swelling of the tongue
- The tongue changes color to dark red
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing or eating
- Loss of spots or papillae on the surface of the tongue
Reason
There are several possible causes that can lead to inflammation of the surface of the tongue or glossitis, namely:
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Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions to drugs, foods, and other potential irritants can aggravate the papillae and muscle tissue of the tongue. In addition, toothpaste can also cause allergies and irritate the tongue.
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Infectious Diseases
Certain diseases can affect the immune system which can attack the papillae and muscles on the tongue. For example, herpes simplex disease. This is a condition in which a virus causes sores and blisters around the mouth, as well as swelling and soreness of the tongue.
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Iron deficiency
Low iron levels in the blood can trigger inflammation of the tongue. Iron itself is useful for regulating cell growth by helping the body make red blood cells which will carry oxygen to all organs of the body.
Low iron levels in the blood will lead to low myoglobin levels. Myoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that is important for healthy muscles in all tissues, especially the muscle tissue of the tongue.
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Trauma
Trauma caused by injury to the mouth can affect the condition of the tongue. Inflammation can occur due to cuts or burns caused by hot food or drinks.
Inflammation can also occur due to dental equipment –such as braces, which can cause friction on rough surfaces. This friction can cause injuries and trigger glossitis. Later, a person can have a risk of repeated injuries to the mouth and tongue.
Diagnosis
To determine the occurrence of inflammation of the tongue surface or glossitis, the doctor will conduct debriefing of the patient to find the symptoms that appear. In addition, the doctor will also examine the condition of the patient’s mouth and tongue.
Examination of saliva samples can also be done to determine whether or not there are other diseases underlying this condition.
Treatment
Handling inflammation of the tongue or glossitis depends on the causative factor. However, there are several things that can be done to overcome them, namely:
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Antibiotics
If it occurs due to an infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics, antifungal, and antiviral drugs to get rid of bacterial, fungal or viral infections.
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Relieves pain
Pain will generally occur, so the doctor will also prescribe topical corticosteroid drugs as pain relievers.
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Maintain oral health
Brushing your teeth and tongue every other day can improve the health of your tongue, gums, and teeth. This can help relieve the symptoms of glossitis and prevent the condition from coming back.
Prevention
The risk of inflammation on the surface of the tongue or glossitis can be prevented in the following ways:
- Maintain a healthy diet.
- Avoid things that allow irritation, such as hot food or drink, spicy food, sour food, and cigarettes.
- Maintain oral hygiene by regularly brushing your teeth and flossing.