Teeth marks on the side of your tongue, also known as crenated or scalloped tongue, are common. They often appear as wavy or rippled indentations along the edges of the tongue. While typically harmless, these marks can sometimes signal underlying health considerations.
Understanding the Appearance
The marks on your tongue usually look like indentations, ridges, or a scalloped pattern along its sides. These imprints form when the tongue consistently presses against the teeth. The tongue, being a muscular organ, can show these imprints due to sustained pressure.
Common Causes
Several factors contribute to teeth marks on the tongue, often related to the tongue’s size, its interaction with dental structures, or general body health. One significant reason is an enlarged tongue, a condition known as macroglossia. This enlargement can stem from various issues, including inflammation, allergic reactions, or certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism, where reduced thyroid hormone levels can lead to tissue swelling.
The alignment of your teeth and jaw structure also plays a role. Misaligned or crowded teeth can create consistent pressure points on the tongue, leading to indentations. Issues with jaw structure, such as a narrow palate, can also influence the tongue’s resting position, causing it to push against the teeth.
Oral habits frequently contribute to the appearance of these marks. Bruxism, which involves grinding or clenching teeth, often occurs during sleep or as a response to stress. This forceful clenching can push the tongue against the teeth, resulting in visible indentations.
Systemic factors can also influence tongue appearance. Dehydration can cause the tongue to swell slightly or lose its normal turgor, making it more prone to showing tooth imprints. Nutritional deficiencies, such as low levels of B vitamins or iron, can affect overall tongue health and contribute to swelling or altered texture. High levels of stress and anxiety can exacerbate habits like teeth clenching or tongue pressing, making these marks more pronounced.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While teeth marks on the tongue are often benign, consult a healthcare professional if the marks are accompanied by pain, persistent discomfort, or tenderness. Difficulty eating or speaking, or significant tongue swelling that interferes with daily activities, also warrant professional attention.
Consult a healthcare provider if you notice changes in the tongue’s color or texture, or if the marks appear alongside other systemic symptoms. These might include unexplained fatigue, changes in weight, or chronic dry mouth. A medical professional can help determine the underlying cause.
Alleviating the Marks and Associated Discomfort
Managing teeth marks on the tongue and any associated discomfort often involves lifestyle adjustments and simple remedies, assuming no serious underlying medical condition is identified. Maintaining adequate hydration helps keep the tongue moisturized and can reduce minor swelling.
If teeth clenching or grinding is suspected, stress management techniques can be beneficial. Practices like breathing exercises, meditation, or regular physical activity may help reduce the frequency and intensity of these oral habits. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene is important to prevent irritation and support overall tongue health. Avoiding excessively hot, spicy, or acidic foods can help if the tongue feels sensitive.
For individuals who clench or grind their teeth, a dentist might recommend a night guard. These custom-fitted or over-the-counter devices create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact that could contribute to tongue indentations.