Geographic tongue harmless

DEAR DR. GOTT: A year ago, I was diagnosed with a geographic tongue. I’ve been seen and treated by three naturopathic doctors, have had two different mouthwashes and use lozenges with no results. No one seems to know a cause or treatment. Do you have any knowledge or suggestions?

DEAR READER: Benign migratory glossitis (geographic tongue) is a condition in which red, irregular patches appear on the tongue’s surface, giving it a roadmap-like appearance. It is benign, doesn’t cause health problems, and isn’t cancerous; nor does it carry infection. The patches may heal and move to another location of the tongue. There may be an associated burning sensation and minor pain.
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Daily Column

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have recently been diagnosed with geographic tongue. It is very annoying and I want to know if you can recommend anything for it. My doctor told me to try vitamin B complex but it isn’t doing much good.

DEAR READER:
Geographic tongue is a coating of white or yellow plaque. As the coating enlarges it sheds cells in the center, leaving red patches surrounded by thicker, white borders that give a map-like appearance.

The condition can be somewhat persistent and uncomfortable at times, lasting from a few months to a year. It is harmless, isn’t cancer, doesn’t represent any other disease, and will usually disappear on its own without treatment. For those individuals with unusually severe cases, a physician can prescribe topical analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs. [Read more...]