Sore Tongue: Causes, Types & Prevention

What Are The Causes of a Sore Tongue?

A common cause of tongue pain or discomfort is glossitis, a condition characterized by a swollen tongue and color changes. Bacteria, yeast, or viruses can cause glossitis.

Other causes may include a variety of irritants and exposure to very hot foods or drinks, spicy foods, tobacco, and alcohol. Many other inflammatory and abnormal processes can affect the tongue.

Common Sore Tongue Causes

• Injury, such as biting or burning the tongue
• Irritation from braces or dentures, brushing your teeth too hard, or rubbing your teeth at night
• Swollen taste buds (enlarged papillae), also called lie bumps
• Mouth ulcers
• Oral yeast infection (yeast infection in the mouth)
• Infections such as syphilis, hand, foot, and mouth disease, HPV and scarlet fever
• Menopause
• Food sensitivities or allergies
• Smoking and chewing tobacco
• Acid reflux
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Medications

Conditions that cause a Sore tongue

• Vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin B-12, iron, folic acid, niacin, or zinc
• Oral mucositis caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy
• Burning mouth syndrome
• Neuralgia
• Lichen planus
• Behcet's disease
• Moeller's glossitis
• Pemphigus Vulgaris
• Sjogren's syndrome
• Celiac disease
• Oral cancer

What Are The Symptoms of a Sore Tongue?

Here are some common symptoms of a sore tongue that can include:

• Pain or discomfort on the tongue
• Redness or inflammation
• Swelling of the tongue
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Sensitivity to hot, spicy, or acidic foods
• Changes in taste perception
• Formation of ulcers or lesions on the tongue
• Difficulty speaking or articulating words
• Burning sensation on the tongue
• Dryness or the rough texture of the tongue

These symptoms might vary depending on the cause of the soreness, so it's essential to consult an expert for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

When to Visit A Doctor?

If you notice changes to your tongue (such as color changes, lumps, or sores) that last more than two weeks, visit a doctor or dentist.

You should consult a doctor first if you have the following symptoms along with a sore tongue:

• Fever
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Bleeding gums
• White patches in the mouth
• Diarrhea
• Inability to eat or drink
• Blisters or sores on other parts of the body

Tongue problems caused by infections, such as oral yeast infection or syphilis, will probably need a prescription to get rid of the problem, so don't delay in making an appointment.

How Is A Sore Tongue Diagnosed?

• Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will visually inspect the tongue for signs of inflammation, lesions, or discolouration.
• Medical History: Discussing your medical history, including any recent injuries, illnesses, or changes in oral hygiene habits, can provide valuable insights.
• Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, diagnostic tests like swabs or biopsies may be necessary to confirm underlying conditions such as oral thrush or oral cancer.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify potential vitamin deficiencies contributing to tongue soreness.

What Treatments Are Available For a Sore Tongue?

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Mouthwashes or rinses for soothing
• Avoiding spicy or acidic foods
• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Using ice chips or popsicles for relief
• Topical treatments like oral gels or creams

Prevention of Sore Tongue

• Maintain proper oral hygiene using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and irritating foods
• Stay well-hydrated
• Protect the mouth from trauma (e.g., with mouthguards if needed)
• Manage stress to help prevent ulcers or flare-ups
• Treat chronic conditions that may contribute (e.g., acid reflux)

Home Remedies to Cure A Sore Tongue

• Saltwater gargle to reduce inflammation
• Aloe vera juice rinse for soothing relief
• Baking soda rinse to balance the mouth pH
• Honey application for antibacterial healing
• Magnesia milk was dabbed on the sore area
• Sucking ice cubes or drinking cold water for pain relief

Lifestyle Changes

• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet (vitamins B12, iron, folate)
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash
• Practice gentle brushing and avoid harsh toothpaste