A tongue groove occurs when the tongue is forcefully pushed into the teeth and the sides of the tongue develop grooves. In most cases, it happens because the tongue is supporting an injured jaw joint that may be tender, click or pop. Many patients are not aware that they are doing this and the tongue is usually not tender.

          A TMJ patient often has a tongue groove. Most TMJ patients have headaches which are often mis-diagnosed as migraines. A hypo-thyroid patient can also have this problem. It usually disappears when the patient wears a soft mouth guard. The guard takes the place of the tongue in supporting the jaw joint and the tongue can relax and not push in between the teeth.

          Fissured Tongue is sometimes confused with tongue grooves. Fissured tongue is a benign condition where there are lots of fissures on the top of the tongue. The surface fissures may differ in size and depth, radiate outward, and make the tongue look wrinkled. Fissured tongue is also called scrotal or plicated tongue.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. A tongue groove is a symptom of another problem and should be investigated by a dentist. If you would like to consult with our Georgia Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, make an appointment by calling 404-874-7428.