3. Cracked or Fissured Tongue
Possible Cause: Fissured Tongue or Geographic Tongue
A fissured tongue presents with deep grooves, often resembling cracks across the surface. It may be inherited or associated with conditions such as psoriasis or Down syndrome. A related condition, geographic tongue, displays irregular patches that change over time.
Common Causes:
Genetics (runs in families)
Nutritional deficiencies
Dehydration
Skin conditions like psoriasis or lichen planus
Symptoms:
Visible cracks or deep grooves on the tongue
Typically painless unless debris or food particles become trapped
“Map-like” appearance in geographic tongue
Prevention and Home Care:
Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean the tongue and remove trapped particles
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Avoid spicy, acidic, or salty foods if discomfort occurs
Generally, a fissured tongue is harmless and doesn’t require medical treatment unless accompanied by pain or secondary infections.
