If your tongue has smooth red patches that seem to move around from day to day, you may have geographic tongue. MedlinePlus, from the National Library of Medicine, describes it as a harmless condition with irregular patches that give the tongue a map-like look. Its other name is benign migratory glossitis.
What causes it
MedlinePlus says the exact cause is unknown. It may be related to irritation from hot or spicy foods or alcohol, and it seems less common in smokers. The patches form where the tongue loses its tiny finger-like bumps (papillae), so those areas look flat and smooth. The pattern can change quickly, though flat areas may last more than a month.
Symptoms
- map-like appearance of the tongue surface
- patches that move from day to day
- smooth, red patches and sores
- soreness and burning pain in some cases
Burning can have other causes too. See burning mouth syndrome.
Diagnosis
A provider can usually diagnose it by looking at the tongue, and MedlinePlus says tests usually aren’t needed. A dentist may spot it at a routine visit.
Treatment
MedlinePlus says no treatment is needed. For discomfort, antihistamine gel or mouth rinses containing steroids or tacrolimus may help, so ask your provider. The condition is harmless but may be uncomfortable and long-lasting.
Self-care
If you’re prone to it, MedlinePlus suggests avoiding irritation from hot or spicy food and alcohol. Some people also find certain products sting. See our mouthwash guide and toothpaste guide.
When it might be something else
Geographic tongue is one kind of glossitis, meaning tongue inflammation. MedlinePlus says glossitis can come from bacterial, yeast or viral infections (including oral herpes), injury from burns, rough teeth or poorly fitting dentures, allergic reactions to oral care products, foods or medicines, dry mouth from Sjögren syndrome, irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, hot foods and spices, hormonal factors, certain vitamin deficiencies and some skin conditions. See dry mouth and canker sores vs cold sores.
When to contact a provider
MedlinePlus advises contacting a provider if symptoms last longer than 10 days. Seek help right away for:
- breathing problems
- a severely swollen tongue
- problems speaking, chewing or swallowing
Frequently asked questions
Is geographic tongue contagious or dangerous?
MedlinePlus calls it harmless.
Will it go away?
Patches change and move. The condition may last a long time, but no treatment is required.
Sources
By the Dentist Review Editorial Team.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your own situation. See our disclaimer.
Featured image: “Geographic tongue” by Martanopue, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized and compressed for the web.
Our guides are written and reviewed by the Dentist Review editorial team. We research each topic using public, authoritative sources such as the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NIDCR), the American Dental Association (ADA) and CMS, and we update guides when guidance changes. Guides are for general information only and are not dental or medical advice; please read our disclaimer and learn more about us.