Smooth tongue is a condition in which the normal rough surface (papillae) of the tongue shrinks or disappears, making the tongue look bald or shiny and thin. Without this rough surface, the tongue may be tender and sensitive to spicy foods. This problem can occur because of a lack of folic acid, iron, riboflavin or vitamin B12 in the diet over a long period of time. With adequate nutrition, symptoms generally begin to improve within two weeks, and the tongue may return to normal appearance within a month. A person with a smooth tongue should avoid irritants, such as spicy foods, alcohol and smoking or using smokeless (chewing) tobacco. A prescription anesthetic ointment may help relieve the discomfort and tenderness.
Smooth tongue is a condition in which the normal rough surface
(papillae) of the tongue shrinks or disappears, making the tongue
look bald or shiny and thin. Without this rough surface, the tongue
may be tender and sensitive to spicy foods. This... More
Healthwise answered:Smooth tongue is a condition in which the normal rough surface (papillae) of the tongue shrinks or disappears, making the tongue look bald or shiny and thin. Without this rough surface, the tongue may be tender and sensitive to spicy foods. This problem can occur because of a lack of folic acid, iron, riboflavin or vitamin B12 in the diet over a long period of time. With adequate nutrition, symptoms generally begin to improve within two weeks, and the tongue may return to normal appearance within a month. A person with a smooth tongue should avoid irritants, such as spicy foods, alcohol and smoking or using smokeless (chewing) tobacco. A prescription anesthetic ointment may help relieve the discomfort and tenderness.Smooth tongue is a condition in which the normal rough surface (papillae) of the tongue shrinks or disappears, making the tongue look bald or shiny and thin. Without this rough surface, the tongue may be tender and sensitive to spicy foods. This... More