What causes cracks on the sides of the tongue?

Cracks or fissures along the lateral edges of the tongue can arise from multiple factors, including excessive internal heat (“fire”) or cold-induced blood stasis and stagnation within the body. Below, we address the question: What causes cracks on the sides of the tongue?

What Causes Cracks on the Sides of the Tongue?

Numerous conditions may lead to lateral tongue fissures, such as fissured tongue (lingua plicata) and stomatitis.

1. Fissured Tongue: Fissured tongue may be either congenital or acquired. The congenital form is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Acquired fissured tongue often results from underlying systemic conditions—for example, deficiencies in vitamin B2 (riboflavin) or niacin (vitamin B3), or diseases such as psoriasis. In most cases, fissured tongue requires no specific treatment. However, for acquired cases, management focuses on addressing the underlying cause—e.g., supplementing adequate B-complex vitamins. If secondary infection occurs, antibiotics such as metronidazole or cefixime may be prescribed under medical supervision.

2. Stomatitis: Stomatitis refers to inflammation of the oral mucosa, commonly caused by bacterial infection but sometimes attributable to viral infection. Clinical manifestations may include tongue pain, erythema, edema, vesicles, milky-white patches, and ulcers. Treatment varies depending on the etiology and severity of symptoms. For bacterial stomatitis, antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or roxithromycin capsules may be prescribed per physician guidance. Patients should also prioritize rest, maintain adequate hydration, and support immune function.

Maintain good oral hygiene daily and avoid spicy, irritating foods—such as chili peppers and mustard.

The above outlines the primary causes of lateral tongue fissures. We hope this information proves helpful.