Bumps on your tongue other than normal taste buds may be a cause for concern at first. However, there are many different causes for abnormal bumps to form on your tongue, many of which are completely harmless. Larger bumps on the tongue may cause some discomfort in patients. In the rare event that a medical condition has caused the bump, your doctor will have additional information on treatment options.
Fibroma
One of the more common causes of a bump on the tongue is a fibroma. According to the Atlanta Dental website, a fibroma is a small bump of fibrous tissue that usually forms after trauma, such as biting your tongue. It is a benign condition that often remains the same shape and hardness for many years depending on the severity of trauma experienced. Surgical intervention can be used to remove the bump if you are experiencing discomfort or annoyance associated with a fibroma.
TMJ
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, refers to the joint on each side of your head in front of your ears where your jawbone meets your skull, according to the Mayo Clinic. TMJ disorders can include arthritis or grinding of the teeth, which may also cause friction on the surface of the tongue. Over time you may experience a symptom called scalloped tongue, which is a hardened bump on your tongue caused by excessive teeth rubbing.
Cancer
In rare cases a large bump on the tongue may be a symptom of oral cancer. A bump associated with cancer usually presents as more of an ulcer or sore, according to the Atlanta Dental website. These bumps or sores may be very painful in some patients, but others may not notice any discomfort at all. Cancerous bumps or sores can grow in size rather rapidly if left untreated.
Taste Buds
Taste buds are located on the top surface of the tongue. Occasionally one may get irritated and become inflamed and raised. This type of bump on the tongue can sting and hurt, but it will usually resolve within a week.
Treatment
Most bumps on the tongue clear up on their own, but your doctor may recommend surgical removal of a bump if your ability to eat or swallow is adversely affected. Medications to fight infection can also be prescribed by your doctor in the case of open tongue sores. Practicing proper dental hygiene, such as regular teeth brushing and visits to the dentist, may also prevent the onset of infected taste buds on your tongue.
Considerations
Not all bumps on the tongue are serious or a threat to your health, but only your dentist or doctor has the ability to diagnose a tongue bump properly, so be sure to consult a doctor.
