Cracked Tongue Advice

Cracked tongue syndrome is a condition also called fissured tongue, furrowed tongue, and plicated tongue. Although a cracked tongue can appear painful, it is often a painless condition. However, because the appearance of a cracked tongue can be alarming, you'll want to keep yourself informed about the range of symptoms the condition produces, what causes the condition and how the condition is treated.

Symptoms

• The article "Common Mouth and Tongue Conditions" on NetWellness.org states that cracked tongue is a condition affecting an estimated two to five percent of the population, and characterized by the appearance of fissures on the upper surface of the tongue. The condition is seen most often in males, and the severity and amount of fissures increases with age. Though cracked tongue does not necessarily signify any additional conditions, it is often seen in people who also have Down Syndrome or Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. If you are experiencing pain and have cracked tongue, you should visit an oral specialist to determine if there are any additional conditions that may cause pain.

Causes

• The article "Fissured Tongue" on DermNetNZ.org suggests that cracked tongue is an inherited condition. A parent with a cracked tongue has a good chance of passing on the condition. In most cases cracked tongue doesn't cause any additional health problems, but it can be uncomfortable and cosmetically unappealing.

Treatment

• There is no defined treatment for cracked tongue. However, if you experience pain when eating certain foods, your oral specialist may suggest an antimicrobial or antibacterial rinse that will reduce pain on the surface of your tongue. You should also maintain a regular oral hygiene routine to make sure that pieces of food don't get stuck in the fissures and cause discomfort.