Glossodynia is the medical name for a sore tongue. Gloss- means tongue and dynia- means pain. There are a number causes from minor problems to serious things. This is a reason to seek professional advice if it continues very long. The most common reason is dental trauma. Sharp teeth or rough calculus can irritate the tongue. Some patients have tongue biting habits which traumatize the tongue. A patient who has recently had dental treatment may also have irritation. The nerve to the tongue can be damaged during oral surgery or during a dental injection. The damage was not directly to the tongue but the patient's brain feels the pain in the tongue.

          A candida infection can cause a red or white irritated sore tongue. When candida is white, it easily rubs off from the surface of the tongue. Candida often appears as a secondary infection following some earlier medical problem. It is important to consider other medical causes when Candida appears. If a patient does not drink enough water, dehydration can cause discomfort and the tongue may feel furry and dry. Drink plenty of water and avoid foods, such as alcohol and caffeine, that can dehydrate. A patient with an iron deficiency may experience a sore tongue. Several vitamin deficiencies such as B12 or folate deficiency can contribute to the problem. Some diseases such as diabetes, Crohn's disease and coeliac disease can also be the cause.

          Food allergies can cause irritation of the sensitive red skin. Geographic tongue is common and may contribute to the problem. Allergies to toothpastes, mouthwashes, or chewing gums can be involved. Many prescription medications have side effects. Oral ulcers can also be the cause. In most case, the ulcers can be seen on the tongue. Smoking or dipping tobacco can irritate the tongue (nicotine stomatitis). In rare cases, it may be an early presentation of oral cancer, usually carcinoma. In most cases, if you have a sore tongue, it is a good idea to visit your dentist and physician. A complete blood count can determine if anaemia is a cause and a glucose spot test screens for diabetes. If the dentist, physician or patient are concerned, a biopsy can be taken to rule out serious causes.

         Other causes are lichen planus, salivary disorders, metabolic disorders, hormonal imbalances, chemical or drug toxicities, kidney disease, drug sensitivities, blood dyscrasias and collagen vascular disorder. If you have a sore tongue or burning tongue and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at  404-874-7428.