Ever noticed big bumps on your tongue while brushing your teeth? When our taste buds change in size, it can be alarming. They’re usually harmless, but they could indicate an underlying condition.
What Are Tongue Bumps?
They are small bumps found on the sides and top of your tongue. They contain your taste buds and temperature sensors.
Cause of Tongue Bumps
Tongue bumps develop for many reasons:
Lie bumps
Also known as transient lingual papillitis, these red or white bumps develop when the papillae on your tongue become irritated and swollen. Many of us experience this at some point in our lives.
It’s unclear why they appear, but it can be due to hormones, types of foods, and stress. They feel uncomfortable, but clear up on their own.
Injury
If you’ve ever bitten your tongue by accident or burnt it with hot food, you could have some swollen bumps on your tongue that should go away in a few days.
Canker sores
These white or yellow sores can appear on your tongue and inside your lips and cheeks. Canker sores usually go away, but since they’re painful, some see a dentist to manage the inflammation.
They can be caused by one of the following:
- Injury
- Smoking
- Stress
- Deficiencies in folic acid, vitamin B12, or iron.
Oral herpes
This is a viral infection that stems from herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). It occurs as cold sores around the mouth and blisters on the tongue. Unfortunately, it’s not curable, but you can consult a doctor to help deal with breakouts.
Cancer
It’s rare, but some bumps may be cancerous, especially if they’re on the sides of your tongue instead of the top.
If you notice these symptoms, consult your doctor:
- Swelling or pain
- Bleeding when touching the bump
- White or red patches
- A sore throat when you swallow
- Sores that don’t heal
- Ear pain
- Hoarse voice
Bacterial infections
If your tongue bumps are really painful and cause fevers, you may have an infection. The following are possible infections:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Syphilis
- Scarlet fever
Treatment Options
You may need antibiotics or other medication to treat the underlying condition causing the bumps, but you can use home remedies to manage your tongue bumps if they’re not severe:
- Drink lots of water
- Relieve pain with over-the-counter medication
- Use a soft toothbrush to brush your tongue
- Don’t smoke
- Avoid alcohol
- Stay away from toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulphate
- Avoid spicy or acidic foods
If you feel pain and feverish, we recommend contacting a doctor, but if not, you should be fine! If you’re nervous, you’re welcome to ask your dentist on your next visit to ease your mind.
Need a dental check-up? Book an appointment! We’ll provide you with top-notch oral care in a comfortable environment.
