The main functions of the tongue are to allow taste, help with chewing and swallowing and aid in the formation of words. The tongue is composed of muscles and covered with taste buds and small bumps called papillae. Most common tongue diseases cause discomfort and change in physical appearance of the tongue, but do not cause any major health problems.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful sores in the mouth that are usually red with a white covering. Canker sores occur on the tongue as well as on the inner cheeks and inside of the lips. The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but stress, mouth injuries, poor nutrition and food allergies may increase the chances of developing canker sores, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Canker sores usually go away on their own in about one week, but medications may be taken to reduce the pain caused by the sores. If canker sores last longer than two weeks or are accompanied by fever, contact a doctor.
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a condition characterized by the presence of precancerous white patches that develop as a result of chronic irritation. Chronic irritation is caused by smoking, use of chewing tobacco, ill-fitting dentures or crowns and rough edges on teeth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The patches most often occur on the tongue, but can also develop on the inner cheeks. Leukoplakia is usually a harmless condition. Treatment of leukoplakia consists of removing the source of irritation in an attempt to get rid of the patch. When the source of irritation is removed, leukoplakia usually clears up in a few weeks. Occasionally, surgery may be needed if the lesion is suspected to be cancerous.
Geographic Tongue
Geographic tongue is a condition characterized by a map-like appearance on the tongue due to irregular patches that develop on the tongue surface. In those with geographic tongue, the papillae are destroyed in some areas of the tongue, which gives those areas a smooth appearance. The exact cause of geographic tongue is unknown, but the condition is believed to be related to vitamin B deficiency, irritation from certain foods and alcohol, according to Medline Plus. In addition to the presence of patches, other symptoms of geographic tongue include soreness and pain. Although it is uncomfortable, geographic tongue is a harmless condition for which there is no treatment.
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