What is Geographic Tongue?

Geographic tongue aka. Geographical Tongue  is an inflammatory condition of the tongue affecting between 2- 3% of the population of the United States but it has been known to affect as many as 15% of children in malnourished populations. It is characterized by denuded regions where the taste buds are missing and these patches are often surrounded by white rings. It may be accompanied by fissures or cracks in the surface of the tongue.

 While Geographic Tongue itself does not cause pain, it may be associated with pain due to related conditions such as cracks (fissures) or burning tongue (aka. burning mouth syndrome). Typically this results in a burning or stinging sensation, especially after contact with certain foods. Typical food irritants are tomato, pineapple, citrus, spicy foods, sour foods,  eggplant, walnuts, sharp cheeses, and mint. In addition, it seems to be easier to burn your tongue in the denuded spots causing additional pain. Often the first time it is noticed is after an episode of drinking a hot liquid and noticing the burning sensation.

How to Eliminate Geographic Tongue