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Bethesda Family Dentist
4833 Bethesda Ave. Suite #302Bethesda, MD 20814(301) 657-3220
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    • Dr. John M. Kelly, D.D.S., P.C.
    • Ellen, RDH
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Geographic Tongue

Online Dental Education Library

Our team of dental specialists and staff strive to improve the overall health of our patients by focusing on preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions associated with your teeth and gums. Please use our dental library to learn more about dental problems and treatments available. If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us.

Geographic Tongue.Geographic tongue is characterized by harmless lesions, or patches, that can suddenly materialize on the tongue's top surface. The condition gets its name from the physical appearance of the lesions, which resemble smooth, red islands, possibly rimmed with white. Their smoothness comes from the absence of the tiny bumps or “papillae” that normally cover the entire surface of the tongue. These variations in color and texture give the whole tongue a map-like appearance.

The pattern on the tongue can change daily as the lesions appear to move or migrate, healing in one spot only to reappear in another. That's why the medical term for this condition is benign migratory glossitis. It's scary looking, but does not compromise a person's health.

Discomfort from the condition can sometimes be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers; mouthrinses containing anesthetics, antihistamines, or steroids; and by avoiding certain irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, and foods that are spicy, salty or acidic.

No one knows exactly what causes geographic tongue. Some factors that may play a role include vitamin B deficiency, irritation from alcohol or spicy foods, and genetics.

This condition can be diagnosed simply by examining your tongue; laboratory tests are usually not necessary. Geographic tongue normally resolves on its own, but a dental professional should be consulted if you notice any changes in your tongue's appearance.


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What is the one thing that your clients should know about you?

I am very conscientious and always looking out for the best interests of my patients. Everything we do
with care strategies and technologies, such as digital radiography, the WAND, Sta System (single tooth anesthesia) and digital scanning (no more messy impressions) is for the patient’s benefit. Our ultimate goal – always – is to achieve optimal dental health for patients in a caring, conservative manner.


What brings you the most satisfaction in your work?

I love welcoming patients into our “dental family.” Some of our team members have been with me for more than 20 years, and many patients, too! Our team does a great job of educating patients about how their dental health impacts their systemic health and well-being. Seeing a patient’s trust develop is very rewarding.

 

Our Location

Bethesda, MD Family Dentist
Bethesda Row Dental
4833 Bethesda Ave. Suite #302
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 657-3220
Dentist in Bethesda, MD Call For Pricing Options

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Office Hours
Monday:07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Tuesday:07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Wednesday:07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thursday:07:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Friday:Closed
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed
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