What Are the Symptoms of Fissured Tongue?

A fissured tongue can make it appear as though the tongue were split in half lengthwise. Sometimes there are multiple fissures as well. Your tongue may also appear cracked. The deep groove in the tongue is usually very visible. This makes it easy for your doctors and dentists to diagnose the condition. The middle section of the tongue is most often affected, but there may also be fissures on other areas of the tongue.

You may experience another harmless tongue abnormality along with a fissured tongue, known as geographic tongue. A normal tongue is covered with tiny, pinkish-white bumps called papillae. People with geographic tongue are missing papillae in different areas of the tongue. The spots without papillae are smooth and red and often have slightly raised borders.

Neither fissured tongue nor geographic tongue is a contagious or harmful condition. However, both can cause some discomfort and increase sensitivity to certain substances.

How Is Fissured Tongue Treated?

Fissured tongue generally doesn’t require treatment. However, it’s important to maintain proper oral and dental care, such as brushing the top surface of the tongue to remove food debris and clean the tongue. Bacteria and plaque can collect in the fissures, leading to bad breath and an increased potential for tooth decay.

Keep up with your normal dental care routine, including daily brushing and flossing. Visit your dentist twice each year for a professional cleaning.