What causes wrinkled tongue on one side of the tongue?

Answer 1

There are several possible causes for a wrinkled appearance on one side of the tongue. This condition could be related to dehydration, which causes the tongue's surface to become less smooth. It might also be a result of vitamin deficiencies, particularly B-complex vitamins that play important roles in tissue health.

Sometimes, a wrinkled appearance on one side can develop from mechanical factors like teeth pressing against the tongue during sleep or tongue-pressing habits. This pressure can leave temporary impressions or "scalloping" along the edges.

Certain medications may cause changes to the tongue's texture, as can smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Less commonly, a unilateral wrinkled appearance could indicate an underlying condition such as partial glossitis (tongue inflammation), a minor stroke affecting facial nerves, or even early manifestations of autoimmune conditions.

I recommend monitoring this condition for two weeks. If it persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain, numbness, taste changes, or difficulty speaking, please schedule an in-person examination. In the meantime, staying well-hydrated and maintaining good oral hygiene may help reduce these symptoms.

Answer 2

A wrinkled tongue on one side can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, irritation, or a condition known as geographic tongue, where patches of the surface of the tongue become inflamed or appear smoother. It may also result from oral trauma or certain medical conditions affecting the tongue's texture. If the condition persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.