Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Tongue Disorders?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

People of all ages can experience several different types of tongue disorders due to poor oral hygiene, infections, genetic tendencies, and various underlying medical conditions. The most common tongue disorders include geographic tongue, hairy tongue, glossitis, and cancer. Most problems that affect the tongue only cause slight discomfort and moderate changes in appearance, and are usually easy to treat. Tongue cancer, however, can lead to serious complications if not recognized and treated immediately by medical professionals. An individual experiencing any symptoms of tongue disorders should consult a physician to determine the best treatment options.

Geographic tongue is a common disorder that causes parts of the tongue to become abnormally smooth and red. The small bumps on the tongue known as papillae tend to disappear in patches. The condition it thought to arise from excessive stress, allergies, or changes in hormone levels. In addition, individuals with a family history of geographic tongue are at a higher risk of developing the disorder at some point in their lives. This condition is not usually painful, and often goes away on its own after a few months with regular brushing and rinsing.

Smoking cigarettes is linked to a number of tongue disorders.
Smoking cigarettes is linked to a number of tongue disorders.

Hairy and discolored tongue disorders arise when papillae turn dark and grow unusually long. These disorders are usually not accompanied by pain or other complications, and often result from poor oral hygiene, reactions to medication, or tobacco use. An individual can usually treat a hairy or discolored tongue by scrubbing it with a toothbrush, rinsing with an oral anesthetic, avoiding smoking, and consuming healthy foods and beverages.

A physical examination can diagnose some tongue disorders.
A physical examination can diagnose some tongue disorders.

An individual with glossitis typically experiences inflammation, swelling, and smoothing of the entire tongue. Glossitis can be caused by excessive tobacco use, bacterial infections, allergic reactions, anemia, or vitamin B-12 deficiencies. Most people experience slight discomfort and difficulty chewing and swallowing food due to irritated tissue on the tongue and inner mouth. Doctors typically suggest that the condition be treated at home by maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and avoiding acidic or spicy foods. When the cause is determined to be anemia or vitamin deficiency, a physician may prescribe medications or supplements to treat the underlying conditions.

Some tongue disorders are an allergic reaction to hygiene products.
Some tongue disorders are an allergic reaction to hygiene products.

Occasionally, tongue disorders are caused by the emergence of cancer in the mouth. Tongue cancer can have genetic links or be related to long-term tobacco and alcohol use, among other causes. Individuals who notice small red and white patches on the tongue, irregularly-shaped bumps, and painful lesions should seek medical help immediately. Doctors can perform biopsies and physical examinations to make a cancer diagnosis and create effective treatment plans for the disorder.

Discussion Comments

Potterspop

While I was at the dentists a few years ago he noticed that I had tongue blisters. I'm eternally glad that he did as it turned out that I had pre-cancerous cells.

Everything turned out fine but I really believe his referral to a specialist saved my life. I found out later that many times dentists are the first to spot oral cancers. Another great reason to not skip your regular checks, right?

Penzance356

@MissMuffet - If you have any tongue sores along with the white markings it could well be oral thrush. It's most common in the young and old but anyone can get it.

I think you should see the doctor, just to be sure it's nothing more serious. Meanwhile, if you eat plain yogurt that will help relieve the symptoms. It must be the type with live cultures in it though.

MissMuffet

I've noticed recently that there are white spots on my tongue and inside my mouth. I don't have any of the tongue symptoms mentioned here, but am still concerned that there's something wrong with me.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Smoking cigarettes is linked to a number of tongue disorders.
      By: Nomad_Soul
      Smoking cigarettes is linked to a number of tongue disorders.
    • A physical examination can diagnose some tongue disorders.
      By: corepics
      A physical examination can diagnose some tongue disorders.
    • Some tongue disorders are an allergic reaction to hygiene products.
      By: paylessimages
      Some tongue disorders are an allergic reaction to hygiene products.
    • White patches on the tongue of a tobacco user could be a sign the person is at risk of developing cancer.
      By: gemenacom
      White patches on the tongue of a tobacco user could be a sign the person is at risk of developing cancer.
    • Tongue cancer can have genetic links.
      By: yanmingzhang
      Tongue cancer can have genetic links.