Geographic Tongue

In a nutshell your tongue looks like it has a map on it!

It is actually a fairly common condition that is caused by the normal top layer of the ‘skin’ of the tongue not being evenly shed. If the skin is shed to early it can leave sore red patches. In other areas where the skin stay on too long, it can leave white appearance. The combined effect of this can make the tongue look like it has the outline of a map

It can affect people of all ages but quite often is first noticed in childhood. It is not contagious, and is a condition not an infection. There is evidence to suggest the condition is hereditary though.

People with the condition often struggle with eating certain foods due to the tenderness created by the red patches. The acidity in things like citrus foods or the spice in chillies and curries can exacerbate the situation.

Geographic tongue can be easily diagnosed by your dentist or doctor.

Whilst there is no cure treatments are available to help soothe associated pain and discomfort.

For further information or advice contact College Street Dental Centre in Petersfield, Hampshire on 01730 263180