Does geographic tongue eventually go away or does it persist for the rest of your life?

Long lasting: The duration of geographic tongue is quite variable. Although it can be of short duration, it generally lasts for years and may never go away. However, this condition is generally benign and without any discomfort, and therefore does not require any treatment.

Doesn't go away: Geographic tongue will persist for the rest of the patient's life. There is no cure for geographic tongue. Most cases of geographic tongue (aka erythema migrans, and benign migratory glossitis) do not have any symptoms so it's not treated at all. Occasionally you will see a patient who has a burning sensation in which case the dentist can prescribe topical anti-inflammatory agents.