What Is Geographic Tongue? Geographic tongue is a condition that gets its name from patches that look like a map on the top and sides of your tongue. You can also have it in other areas of your mouth. Doctors sometimes call it benign migratory glossitis or erythema migrans. The patches can come and go or change very quickly over days, weeks, or months. You might have them for up to a year. Geographic tongue is benign, which means it’s harmless. It isn't linked to an infection or cancer. It isn’t contagious, so you can’t catch it from or pass it to someone else.

Geographic Tongue Symptoms The signs of geographic tongue are uneven red patches. They’re usually on your tongue but can also be on your gums, on your cheeks, on the roof of your mouth, or under your tongue. These patches may: Have a white or light-colored border

Vary in size, shape, and color

Start in one area and then move to another

Not have the small bumps (papillae) that usually cover your tongue You may not know that you have geographic tongue until your dentist or doctor spots it during an oral exam. About 1 in 10 people with geographic tongue have mild discomfort or a burning or painful feeling. This is often because of things like: Hot, spicy, or acidic foods

Cigarette smoke

Toothpaste

Geographic Tongue Causes and Risk Factors Geographic tongue happens when parts of your tongue are missing layers of papillae. Doctors aren’t sure exactly why you lose them. However, because geographic tongue tends to run in families, it might have something to do with your genes. Geographic tongue is also more common in people who have psoriasis or cracks and grooves on the top and sides of their tongue (fissured tongue). Geographic tongue affects about 1% to 3% of people. It can happen at any age, but it’s more likely in young adults. It’s more common in women than in men.

Geographic Tongue Diagnosis Your dentist or doctor will ask about your symptoms and look at your mouth and tongue. You may need tests to rule out other medical conditions.

Geographic Tongue Treatment Any pain or discomfort will probably get better on its own. But if you have severe, constant pain, medication can help. Your doctor or dentist may prescribe: Over-the-counter pain relievers

Anti-inflammatories

Mouth rinses with anesthetic

Corticosteroids that you put on your tongue

Zinc supplements It might also help to limit or avoid things like: Tobacco

Hot, spicy, or acidic foods or dried, salty nuts

Toothpaste with additives, whitening agents, or heavy flavoring (toothpaste for sensitive teeth is a better choice)