Tiny red bumps on your tongue are most likely not serious and will resolve on their own without treatment. However, determining the cause of the tiny red bumps, being aware of the signs and symptoms that could indicate something serious and learning good tongue hygiene practices can keep your tongue happy and healthy.
The Facts
The tongue is made of delicate tissue that has many nerve endings for pain and touch and is more sensitive than other body parts, according to the Merck Manuals. It's mostly made up of muscle and is covered by a mucous membrane, says the New York Times Health Guide. Between your taste buds are tiny bumps called papillae. The tiny red bumps on your tongue could be caused by a variety of factors.
Cause
If the tiny red bumps on your tongue are painful, you most likely have inflamed papillae, says familydoctor.org. Inflamed papillae are usually caused by traumatic injury such as burning your tongue on hot food or beverages, or accidentally biting your tongue. Smoking can also cause your tongue to be irritated and sore, says the New York Times Health Guide. A canker sore, or viral ulcer, can also appear on your tongue, although usually only one or two at a time. Canker sores are thought to be caused by emotional stress.
Treatment
Inflamed papillae usually resolve on their own. In the meantime, avoid hot, spicy and acidic foods because they may irritate your tongue more, says familydoctor.org. Use pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen as directed for relief. If you smoke, try to cut back or quit. Limit your stressors to prevent canker sores. If you notice a drastic change in the color of the tongue, if your tongue looks hairy or if you have difficulty moving your tongue, see your doctor for additional treatment, says the New York Times Health Guide.
Prevention
Good oral hygiene includes more than just brushing and flossing your teeth. Dr. John Warren, an associate professor in the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, says, "In addition to brushing the teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing on a regular basis, it is important to clean other areas of the mouth, particularly the tongue." The tongue has a rough and porous surface that can harbor plaque-causing bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. Warren suggests brushing your tongue several times a week with a soft-bristled toothbrush that's in good condition.
Warning
Although little bumps on the top and side of the tongue are usually harmless, a bump on only one side could be cancerous, the Merck Manuals says. Sores or lumps that are hard and unexplained red or white areas on the tongue should be examined by a doctor or dentist to rule out oral cancer. Most oral cancers don't hurt in the early stages, so don't ignore your tongue abnormalities just because they don't hurt.
