What causes a cracked tongue?

Fissured tongue, also known as scrotal tongue, is a common benign lesion of the oral mucosa, mainly characterized by deep grooves and furrows appearing on the surface of the tongue. The causes are varied and generally associated with the following factors: 1. Genetic factors: Fissured tongue sometimes occurs in families, suggesting a possible genetic component. 2. Nutritional deficiencies: Insufficient intake of B vitamins, especially B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), and B12, may lead to changes in the tongue mucosa and cause fissures. 3. Oral environmental changes: Long-term dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, or excessive growth of certain microorganisms in the oral cavity may affect tongue health. 4. Systemic diseases: In rare cases, fissured tongue may be an early sign of certain systemic diseases, such as iron-deficiency anemia, atrophic gastritis, or hypothyroidism. 5. Age-related factors: With aging, physiological changes in tongue structure may also lead to fissured tongue. For daily care, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate intake of B vitamins may help improve symptoms. If fissured tongue is accompanied by pain, discomfort, or persistent worsening, prompt medical consultation is recommended to rule out underlying diseases and receive appropriate treatment.