16 Causes & Triggers of Scalloped Tongue You Shouldn’t Ignore (List)

Teeth Grinding

Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw or a headache? Or maybe you’ve been told by your partner that you grind your teeth at night. If so, you may be suffering from bruxism, a medical term for teeth grinding. Bruxism is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is most prevalent in adults between the ages of 20 and 50. 

While most people who suffer from bruxism do so intermittently and without any adverse effects, some may experience more frequent and severe episodes that can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage.Interestingly, there appears to be a connection between bruxism and a scalloped tongue. While the exact relationship between bruxism and a scalloped tongue is unclear, there are several theories about how these two conditions might be connected. 

One theory suggests that grinding your teeth can irritate the papillae on your tongue, causing them to become inflamed and lead to a scalloped appearance. Another theory suggests that both conditions may be linked to an underlying condition, such as stress or anxiety.