It may not seem like a big deal at first, but that sharp, persistent ache on the side of your tongue can seriously interfere with your daily life when left unchecked. When the side of your tongue hurts from teeth contact or another issue, it’s your body signaling that something needs attention.

Tongue pain is more common than you may think. The discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe pain that disrupts eating and other daily activities. Understanding the root causes and how to address them can help you move forward with your life more quickly.

Exploring the Potential Causes of Tongue Pain

Tooth-Related Trauma

Teeth with rough edges nearby can cause minor but painful injuries to the tongue. Misalignment of nearby teeth can also harm the tongue by applying constant friction against its delicate tissue.

By the exact mechanism, dental work like braces, retainers, or rough fillings can also irritate the tongue. Finally, we all know what it feels like to accidentally bite down on the tongue while chewing food or gum. It’s a very unpleasant sensation that can cause a painful sore on the tongue.

Infections and Inflammatory Conditions

Oral infections can affect multiple areas of the tongue, including the sides. Whether bacterial or viral, infections may cause localized swelling, burning sensations, and pain on one or both sides of the tongue.

Geographic tongue is a condition characterized by smooth, red patches on the tongue that replace its everyday bumps (papillae).[1] While this condition is non-cancerous and does not typically require treatment, it can still cause tongue pain in some cases.

Oral thrush is an infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast.[2] Like geographic tongue, it is considered harmless in a medical sense, but it can still cause pain while making eating less enjoyable. Oral thrush can be treated with antifungal medication.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Iron deficiency anemia can manifest as tongue pain and changes in texture.[3] Low iron levels often cause the tongue to become smooth, pale, and sore.

Deficiencies in other nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and folate, can also cause similar symptoms. In these cases, your tongue may become especially sensitive along the sides where it makes contact with the teeth.

Allergic Reactions and Food Sensitivities

Highly acidic foods, such as fruits, tomatoes, or spicy dishes, can sometimes trigger reactions on the sides of the tongue, causing temporary pain and irritation.

If your tongue hurts on one side from consistent tooth contact, it may also be due to an allergy to toothpaste, mouthwash, or any dental materials used in your mouth.

Food allergies and sensitivities are common causes of tongue swelling and pain. Even mild allergic reactions can create enough inflammation to make your tongue sensitive to regular tooth contact.

Canker Sores and Ulcerations

The sides of the tongue are a common site for canker sores. These small, painful lesions can make eating and even speaking highly uncomfortable.

Aphthous ulcers, characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the mouth (oral mucosa), can occur independently or as a result of other underlying health conditions.[4] Depending on the size and severity, they may take days to several weeks to heal.

Trauma-induced mouth ulcers can occur after the same area of the tongue is consistently irritated by teeth or dental appliances.

Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy hormones can increase tongue sensitivity and cause swelling.[5] This increased sensitivity makes regular tooth contact feel more painful than it usually does.

Menstrual cycle fluctuations also affect oral tissues. Many women experience increased tongue sensitivity during specific phases of their menstrual cycle.

Menopause brings significant hormonal shifts that can affect oral health. Decreased estrogen levels often lead to dry mouth and increased sensitivity of the tissues.

How to Address Tongue Pain

Tongue pain can be caused by numerous factors, and treatment methods also vary. Consulting with a dental care provider is the best way to accurately determine the source of the issue and formulate an effective treatment plan.

Immediate Relief Strategies

You may be advised to rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, avoid irritating foods (such as spicy or acidic ones), or apply ice chips to temporarily numb the affected area.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help to manage discomfort. Follow package directions and consider anti-inflammatory options for better results.

Professional Dental Intervention

When teeth cause tongue irritation, professional smoothing or reshaping can provide immediate relief. Rough edges or sharp points need professional attention.

Orthodontic evaluation becomes necessary when misaligned teeth repeatedly injure your tongue. Proper alignment prevents future injuries and improves overall oral health.

Dental appliance adjustments can eliminate sources of irritation. Retainers, braces, or dentures often need minor modifications to prevent tongue contact.

Medical Treatment Options

Prescription medications, nutritional supplementation, and/or specialized treatments for conditions like geographic tongue may be the most effective course of action to resolve some cases of tongue pain. If the discomfort is caused by a chronic condition, you may need ongoing medical attention.

Ready to Find Relief?

Persistent tongue pain shouldn’t control your daily life. When the side of your tongue hurts due to tooth contact, a professional evaluation can identify the exact cause and provide targeted solutions.

Don’t wait for pain to worsen or complications to develop. Early intervention often means simpler treatments and faster recovery times.

Your oral health affects your overall quality of life. Taking action now prevents future problems and ensures your comfort during daily activities, such as eating and speaking.

Frequently Asked Questions