Dental Health Topics

I've Taken Geography in School, but What is a Geographic Tongue?

I've Taken Geography in School, but What is a Geographic Tongue?

"Mom, do you know what's going on with my tongue? … It's got some weird patches on it … yuck!"

How's that for a question not commonly found in the parental handbook?  

What your child is likely concerned about is referred to as a "geographic tongue." The condition is nothing serious, and it really doesn't have much to do with geography. It is something you might want to know about, though, particularly if your child is wondering why their tongue suddenly looks like it’s sporting the map of Europe.

So, What is that Funny Shape?

Geographic tongue is a harmless condition caused by the loss of some of the tiny little pinkish-white bumps that cover the surface of the tongue. 

Those bumps, called papillae, serve two main functions, the first is to help create friction and grip the food that enters your mouth, and the second is to provide receptors for your sense of taste. 

That's right, a portion of those papillae are your taste buds! 

Science doesn't exactly understand what causes the loss of some of these papillae; however there is some speculation the condition can be genetic, as well possibly related to allergies, diabetes, oral contraceptive use, stress and immune system hypersensitivities. 

Psoriasis, itself an immune related skin condition, is frequently seen in patients with geographic tongue. Another common symptom seen in individuals with geographic tongue are tongue "fissures," which resemble deep cracks along its surface.

Should I Worry?

For the most part, geographic tongue doesn't present any real concern beyond appearance. 

It's also not contagious in any way, so your teen needn't be worried about spreading it to anyone. 

For some, there can be occasional discomfort which is usually brought on by certain foods - particularly of the acidic and spicy variety.

The clearest indicators of geographic tongue are the irregular, smooth, red patches that give this condition its unique name. 

The patches can sometimes be surrounded by a white or yellowish border, caused by the body's white blood cell response to the loss of the papillae, and the patches will vary in shape and size. They're also known to come and go frequently, and at times, can even been seen to shift to other areas of the tongue - sometimes even within hours.  

The main thing to keep in mind is that geographic tongue is not a serious condition, and that it often goes away by itself. 

If you or your child is concerned, or even if you just have more questions about what's happening on your child's tongue, see your dentist or physician to ask more questions. As always, it's important to rule out any underlying issues that can contribute to any illness, and this might be one of those instances where a quick visit to the doctor can provide some further assurance.