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What Causes a Scalloped Tongue?

A scalloped tongue gets its name from the wavy or rippled indentations that appear along the sides of a person’s tongue. A scalloped tongue is also known as: wavy tongue, pie crust tongue, crenated tongue, lingua indentata.

The notches of a scalloped tongue are rarely painful. Any pain may be the result of the underlying condition that’s causing the ripples.

The lining of your mouth, especially on the sides nearest your tongue, may become red or sensitive. This is rare, but more likely if you’re applying a significant amount of pressure or friction to the skin.

A scalloped tongue is rarely a sign of a very serious problem, such as cancer. However, that doesn’t mean a scalloped tongue is nothing to be worried about.

Understanding the causes of a scalloped or wavy tongue can help you stop the behaviors that are leading to it and know when to see your doctor.

Scalloped tongue causes

In most cases, a scalloped tongue occurs due to swelling or inflammation of the tongue. Tongue swelling is also called macroglossia. Each cause of macroglossia or swelling of the tongue results in other symptoms too. Knowing the different symptoms can help you understand what might be at the root of your tongue issues.

Genetic condition or birth defect

Some disorders or diseases you’re born with may lead to macroglossia and a scalloped tongue. These include:

Down syndrome

congenital hypothyroidism

Apert syndrome

Each of these conditions has unique symptoms.

Hypothyroidism

This thyroid disorder is characterized by low levels of thyroid hormone. When thyroid hormone levels are low, you may experience the following symptoms in addition to tongue swelling and scalloped edges:

hair loss

tiredness

aches and cramps

bruising

low blood pressure

Amyloidosis

A buildup of proteins in organs characterizes this disease. The accumulation can occur in your organs and soft tissues, including your tongue. If it occurs in the tongue or mouth, you may experience swelling or inflammation. The large, swollen tongue can push against your teeth and create scalloped edges over time.

Dehydration

Dehydration can lead to swelling all over your body, including your tongue.

Anxiety

A variety of oral symptoms may originate from high levels of stress or anxiety. These include jaw pain, teeth grinding, and pressing your tongue against your teeth. Over a long period of time, pressing your tongue against your teeth can leave indentations.

When to call your doctor

A scalloped tongue usually isn’t a sign of something serious. You don’t need to seek emergency care, but you should make an appointment with your doctor if you see the telltale indentations of a scalloped tongue. If you don’t already have a primary care doctor, the Healthline FindCare tool can help you find a physician in your area.

The potential causes can lead to additional symptoms and complications if they’re not treated. If you notice you have a scalloped tongue, make a list of any other possible symptoms you think you may be experiencing. Knowing all signs and symptoms can help your doctor narrow down the list of likely causes.

(04/23/2021)
by Health Line

More Information: https://www.healthline.com/health/scalloped-tongue

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