From the Research
Geographic tongue typically doesn't require specific treatment as it's a benign condition that often resolves on its own. For symptomatic cases, management focuses on avoiding irritating foods and using over-the-counter remedies. Patients should avoid spicy, acidic, hot, or salty foods that can trigger discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs can help with pain. Topical anesthetics such as benzocaine gel or rinses containing diphenhydramine can provide temporary relief. For persistent symptoms, prescription options include topical corticosteroids like triamcinolone 0.1% paste applied to affected areas 2-3 times daily, or corticosteroid rinses such as dexamethasone 0.5 mg/5mL solution used as a mouth rinse for 2 minutes then spit out, 2-4 times daily.
Key Considerations
- Zinc supplements may help some patients, though evidence is limited, as shown in a study that found patients with geographic tongue had lower levels of salivary zinc compared to the control group 1.
- Good oral hygiene is important, using alcohol-free mouthwashes and gentle brushing.
- Most cases of geographic tongue are self-limiting and related to the body's inflammatory response, with lesions that migrate across the tongue surface over time.
- Patients should be reassured about the benign nature of this condition, as anxiety about its appearance can sometimes be more troublesome than the physical symptoms.
- A recent study found that stress can exacerbate the signs and symptoms of geographic tongue, particularly in younger patients 2.
Treatment Options
- Topical application of 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide combined or not with 0.05% retinoic acid has been proposed as a treatment option 3.
- Topical tacrolimus has also been reported as a successful treatment for symptomatic geographic tongue, although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety 4.