Tongue Impressions: When to Seek Dental Care

Raised areas resembling tooth marks on the right side of the tongue?

Hello, I have noticed irregularities on the right side of my tongue that resemble tooth marks, with some areas raised as if there is a growth (bumpy).
It does not hurt, and when I apply light pressure, it does not feel like a hard lump.
The left side of my tongue also has tooth marks, but the raised areas do not appear as pronounced as those on the right side.
Should I go to a major hospital for an examination? This has been present for about one to two years.
Which specialty should I consult? Thank you.

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/28

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The right side of the tongue has irregular indentations resembling tooth marks, with a prominent growth on the raised area that is not painful.
The left side also shows tooth marks, but they are not as pronounced as on the right side.
It is recommended to consult an oral surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/04/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the impressions on your tongue and whether you should seek dental care. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing some changes in the texture of your tongue, particularly on the right side where you mention having a bumpy area that resembles a growth, along with indentations that look like bite marks.
Firstly, it's important to understand that the tongue can show various signs of health issues, and changes in its appearance can be indicative of underlying conditions. The presence of indentations or grooves on the sides of the tongue, often referred to as "scalloped tongue," can be associated with several factors, including:
1. Bruxism: This is a condition where individuals grind or clench their teeth, often unconsciously, which can lead to the tongue being pressed against the teeth, resulting in indentations.

2. Dehydration: A dry mouth can lead to changes in the tongue's surface, making it appear scalloped or fissured.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, iron, and folic acid, can lead to changes in the tongue's texture and appearance.

4. Allergic Reactions or Irritation: Sometimes, certain foods or oral hygiene products can cause localized swelling or irritation on the tongue.

5. Oral Lesions: The bumpy area you describe could potentially be a benign growth, such as a fibroma or a papilloma, or it could be something that requires further investigation, such as a cyst or other lesion.

Given that you have noticed these changes for about one to two years without any pain, it is still advisable to seek a professional evaluation. While the absence of pain is a good sign, persistent changes in the oral cavity should not be ignored.
I recommend that you visit a dentist, preferably one who specializes in oral medicine or oral pathology. They will be able to conduct a thorough examination of your tongue and the surrounding tissues, and if necessary, they may refer you to an oral surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.
During your visit, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including when you first noticed the changes, any other symptoms you may have experienced, and your overall health history. This information will help the dentist or specialist make a more accurate diagnosis.

In summary, while the changes you are experiencing may not be serious, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Seeking dental care will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope you find the answers you need soon!

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