What Causes Cracks on the Tongue, and How to Address Them
Jul 11, 2026
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In most cases, tongue fissures may result from factors such as inadequate hydration, irregular sleep patterns, glossitis, vitamin deficiencies, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Patients may choose appropriate interventions—including general supportive measures, pharmacotherapy, or surgical treatment—based on their specific condition. Daily management should emphasize healthy dietary and sleep habits, along with timely rehydration and nutritional supplementation.
Under normal circumstances, tongue fissures may result from insufficient water intake, irregular sleep patterns, glossitis, vitamin deficiency, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Patients may choose general management, pharmacological treatment, or surgical intervention based on their specific condition. A detailed analysis follows:
1. Insufficient Water Intake
Consuming inadequate amounts of water daily leads to depletion of bodily fluids (jin-ye), causing dehydration of the tongue mucosa and subsequent surface shrinkage that manifests as superficial fissures. Maintain adequate daily hydration to keep oral mucosa moist, and increase intake of fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement fluid levels.
2. Irregular Sleep Patterns
Chronic sleep deprivation and inconsistent daily routines disrupt metabolic balance and impair the nourishment of internal organs by jin-ye, thereby contributing to fine fissures on the tongue surface. Establish regular sleep-wake cycles, avoid staying up late, ensure sufficient rest, and stabilize overall metabolic function.
3. Glossitis
Inflammatory changes in the tongue mucosa—such as congestion and atrophy—damage the structural integrity of lingual tissue, leading to fissure formation. Under medical guidance, patients may take Prunella vulgaris and Isatis tinctoria anti-inflammatory oral liquid, cefaclor sustained-release tablets, and vitamin C tablets; maintain rigorous oral hygiene and reduce consumption of spicy foods.
4. Vitamin Deficiency
Long-term deficiency of B-complex vitamins impairs normal metabolism of tongue mucosal cells and reduces mucosal elasticity, resulting in fissures of varying depth. As prescribed by a physician, supplementation with vitamin B2 tablets, vitamin B6 tablets, or compound B-complex vitamins—alongside a balanced diet rich in essential trace elements—is recommended.
5. Sjögren’s Syndrome
This autoimmune disorder causes diminished salivary gland secretion, leading to chronic dryness of the mouth and tongue, which progressively deepens and worsens existing fissures. Treatment under medical supervision may include hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets, total glycosides of Paeonia lactiflora capsules, and artificial bezoar detoxifying tablets. In cases of severe salivary gland damage, salivary gland repair surgery may be required.
Adopt healthy dietary and lifestyle habits daily, replenish fluids and nutrients promptly, and practice thorough oral hygiene. If tongue fissures progressively deepen or are accompanied by symptoms such as pain or dryness, seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.
