What is A Fissured Tongue?

Have you ever noticed deep grooves or cracks on the surface of your tongue? If so, you may have a condition called fissured tongue. While the appearance of a fissured tongue can be alarming, it is usually a harmless condition that does not require treatment. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the causes, symptoms, and management.

What is a Fissured Tongue?

Fissured tongue, also known as lingua plicata or plicated tongue, is a benign condition characterized by deep grooves or furrows on the surface of the tongue. These fissures can vary in depth and length and may be more prominent in the center of the tongue. This is a benign condition that affects about 5% of the population. It is characterized by cracks or fissures throughout the surface of the tongue.

Fissured tongue. (2023, November 13). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fissured_tongue

Causes of Fissured Tongue

The exact cause of fissured tongue is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:

  1. Genetics: Fissured tongue tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
  2. Aging: The occurrence increases with age, possibly due to the natural wearing down of the tongue’s surface over time.
  3. Dry mouth: Conditions that cause dry mouth, such as dehydration or certain medications, may exacerbate the appearance of fissures on the tongue.
  4. Vitamin B deficiencies: Some studies suggest that deficiencies in vitamin B2, B3, or B12 may be associated with this condition.
  5. Association with other conditions: Fissured tongue may be more common in people with Down syndrome, Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, or psoriasis. The tongue has deep grooves or fissures on its surface, which can be present at birth or develop with age. While these grooves are normal variations, they are harmless “cracks” in the tongue.

Symptoms of Fissured Tongue

The primary symptom is the presence of deep grooves or cracks on the tongue’s surface. These fissures may be more noticeable when the tongue is stretched out. In most cases, this condition does not cause any pain, discomfort, or changes in taste.

However, some individuals may experience:

  • Mild irritation or burning sensation, especially when consuming spicy or acidic foods
  • Debris or food particles trapped within the fissures, which can lead to bad breath or a slight odor
  • Temporary inflammation or redness of the tongue, particularly if the fissures become irritated or infected

Diagnosis and Management

Fissured tongue is typically diagnosed based on its characteristic appearance during a visual examination by a dental professional or healthcare provider. No specific tests or procedures are required to confirm the diagnosis.

In most cases, this condition does not require treatment, as it is a benign condition that does not cause significant discomfort or complications. However, if you experience persistent irritation or have concerns about the appearance of your tongue, consider the following management tips:

  1. Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your tongue gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove debris and bacteria from the fissures. This can help prevent bad breath and reduce the risk of infection.
  2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and prevent the fissures from becoming more prominent or irritated.
  3. Avoid irritants: If you find that certain foods or beverages aggravate your condition, try to limit or avoid them.
  4. Manage underlying conditions: If associated with another condition, such as vitamin deficiencies or dry mouth, work with your healthcare provider to manage these underlying issues.

It is essential to clean the tongue to reduce problems with bad breath or with infections. When a tongue shows a white coating, it results from a combination of dead skin cells, small food particles, and a large number of bacteria, which can grow between the cracks and crevices.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While fissured tongue is generally harmless, it’s important to consult with a dental professional or healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Persistent pain, burning, or discomfort on your tongue
  • Difficulty eating, speaking, or swallowing due to tongue irritation
  • Signs of infection, such as severe redness, swelling, or discharge from the fissures
  • Concerns about the appearance or texture of your tongue that do not resolve within a few weeks This condition occurs during childhood, but it can also surface at any age. It affects roughly 10% of the population. There are usually no associated symptoms, and it is not contagious. At times, it can be associated with burning or soreness of the tongue due to the accumulation of food debris in the fissures. They may also experience bad breath for the same reason. If you have any concerns contact your dentist for an examination.

What is a fissured tongue a sign of?

Fissured tongue is often a benign condition, but it can be associated with certain underlying health issues, including:

  1. Nutritional Deficiencies – Deficiencies in iron, B vitamins (especially B12), and zinc have been linked to fissured tongue.
  2. Geographic Tongue – Often occurs together with fissured tongue; both are inflammatory conditions of the tongue.
  3. Sjögren’s Syndrome – An autoimmune disorder causing dry mouth and eyes, which can contribute to tongue fissures.
  4. Psoriasis – Some people with psoriasis develop oral lesions or a fissured tongue, sometimes called “psoriasis tongue.”
  5. Down Syndrome – Fissured tongue is more common in individuals with Down syndrome.
  6. Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome – A rare neurological disorder characterized by fissured tongue, facial swelling, and facial paralysis.
  7. Oral Candidiasis – Fissures can trap food and debris, increasing susceptibility to yeast infections.
  8. Aging – More common in older adults due to natural changes in the tongue’s surface.

If fissured tongue is accompanied by pain, burning, or other symptoms, it may be worth checking for nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, or infections.

Living with a Fissured Tongue

For most people, this is a minor condition that does not impact daily life. By understanding the nature of the condition and taking simple steps to maintain good oral hygiene, you can minimize any potential discomfort or complications associated with a fissured tongue.

Remember, this is a common and benign condition that affects many people worldwide. If you have concerns about the appearance or symptoms of your tongue, don’t hesitate to consult with a dental professional or healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.

With proper self-care and awareness, you can confidently navigate life, knowing that it is a harmless variation in tongue texture and appearance.

    Scroll to Top
    Share via
    Copy link