Bumps on your tongue can have many different causes that range in medical complexity or concern. Most bumps on your tongue are harmless and have no negative impact on your health. On rare occasions, however, a bump on the tongue may be a symptom associated with a larger medical issue. Speak to your doctor for more information regarding the formation of bumps on your tongue.
Oral Cancer
According to the Atlanta Dental Group, bumps on the end of your tongue may be a symptom associated with cancer. While rare, oral cancer is often ulcerated and usually grows rapidly on the tongue in both size and shape. These sores or bumps may or may not cause pain in the patient. Your doctor may wish to take a biopsy of the sore or bump on your tongue for further testing.
Fibroma
Another common cause for the formation of bumps on your tongue is a fibroma. According to the Atlanta Dental Group, a fibroma is a small bump of fibrous connective tissue that forms on the tongue after an injury, such as biting your tongue. This bump can occur anywhere on the tongue and can become quite hard over time. Surgical removal of a fibroma may be necessary if the bump is large or affects normal eating or swallowing.
Canker Sores
According to MedLine Plus, canker sores are also a common cause of bumps on the tip of the tongue. Canker sores can be triggered by emotional stress, dietary deficiencies, hormonal changes or viral infection. Canker sores are essentially mouth ulcers that may present as tiny bumps or open sores.
Treatment
Depending on the cause of bumps on your tongue, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication or surgical removal of the bump. However, common conditions like canker sores often clear up on their own and require no additional treatment. Further treatment options may also be recommended by your dentist for more serious medical conditions.
Prevention/Solution
Preventing bumps on your tongue can be rather difficult, especially in the case of sores or bumps that form as a result of hormonal or emotional stress. Proper dental hygiene is critical to keeping your mouth clean and free from bacteria, which could otherwise lead to infection when introduced to an open sore.
