Geographic Tongue

Geographic tongue, also called benign migratory glossitis, is an inflammatory condition in which red patches appear on your tongue resembling continents on a globe.

The patches can appear on the top and sides of your tongue and sometimes other parts of your mouth. The shape and location of the patches can change day to day, but in general, these patches can last up to a year.

Geographic tongue is harmless, poses no health risk, and heals on its own. It isn’t contagious either, so it cannot be passed from one person to another.

The red patches come from the absence of the tiny bumps on your tongue called “papillae” that normally cover the entire surface of the tongue. These patches may:

  • Change in size, shape, color, and location
  • Appear and disappear over the course of up to a year
  • Have a border that is often white or light-colored

Though most cases are symptom-free, some symptoms may include a burning sensation or pain in your mouth, in which case it might be best to:

  • Avoid spicy or acidic foods, or dry, salted nuts
  • Avoid cigarette smoke and alcohol
  • Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, without intense flavors or whitening additives

Though the cause is unknown, geographic tongue is thought to be associated with a vitamin B deficiency.

If you are experiencing persistent and severe discomfort, your doctor may recommend:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Zinc supplement
  • Mouthwash with anesthetic
  • Corticosteroids for the tongue

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Buttonwood Dental

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

12:00 pm-8:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

8:00 am- 3:00 pm (every other Sat.)

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "I have been a patient of Dr. Jordache for over 5 years now. Could even be longer. He & his staff are all very Nice & personable. I always feel very comfortable with them no matter what procedure I've had done.. cleaning, filling or crowns. I Highly recommend them to anyone looking for a Great Dentist. Bye the way my whole family are patients my husband Chris & my twins Ethan and Elijah"
    Sherrie B.
  • "Hands down the best dentist I have been to! Everyone here is excellent, they are a small office and he really takes his time to talk to you about options and pricing ect.. great guy and office would highly recommend!"
    John A.
  • "Dr. Jordache and his team are the best! They are always very professional and you walk out with a Hollywood smile!"
    Andreea F.
  • "If you have a fear of going to the dentist Dr. Jordache and his wonderful staff will put you at ease. They take their time and are very informative. I highly recommend them."
    Carol R.
  • "By far my favorite dental office I've ever been too, I had great experiences with getting my teeth cleaned and fixed while attending UMASS Dartmouth and I still go here because I always get treated like a friend and family!"
    Alex M.