Glossitis is an infection of the tongue caused by an allergy to food additives, toothpaste, or the like. Consumption of tobacco, alcohol, fatty and spicy foods can also lead to the development of glossitis.

Glossitis is characterized by swelling, and a change in color of the tongue. This condition is also defined by a tongue that becomes smooth.

Glossitis is often the consequence of other attacks such as:

• an allergic reaction to toothpaste, products used in mouthwashes, dyes used in candy, and others
• the presence of Sjorgen’s syndrome, which is characterized in particular by destruction of the salivary glands
• a bacterial or viral infection (such as herpes for example)
• following surgery for burns, fitting of braces, etc.
• a deficiency in iron or vitamin B12
• certain skin disorders, such as erythema, syphilis, and others
• consumption of tobacco, alcohol, fatty foods, spices and other irritating foods.
• infection with a fungus

In addition, the risk of developing glossitis is also more increased if this condition is present in the family circle.

Complications from glossitis include:

• airway blockage
• difficulty chewing, speaking, and swallowing
• daily discomfort.

The clinical signs and general symptoms of glossitis sometimes appear quickly and sometimes more slowly, depending on the case. These include:

• difficulty chewing, swallowing, and speaking
• the surface of the tongue, initially rough, which becomes smooth
• tongue pain
• a change in the color of the tongue
• the swelling tongue.

Since glossitis is a condition that develops as a result of an underlying pathology, the risk factors are therefore particularly allergies to food additives, toothpaste, and others. But also other pathologies.

The consumption of alcohol and tobacco are also important risk factors in the development of glossitis.

The prevention of glossitis particularly requires good oral hygiene: brushing your teeth regularly and correctly, having regular checks at the dentist, avoiding the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, etc.

The main goal of treatment for glossitis is to reduce the severity of symptoms. The majority of patients do not need to be hospitalized to follow the care. However, hospitalization is necessary in the event of significant swelling in the tongue, which may limit breathing.

The management of glossitis includes good oral hygiene, antibiotics and antifungals in the event of bacterial infections and / or a fungus.

Avoidance of certain irritants, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and tobacco, is also part of the management of glossitis.