Your tongue already has small bumps on it. These bumps are your taste buds. They naturally replace themselves about every 10 days. With your tongue constantly losing and growing new taste buds, it might be difficult to notice an unusual bump. If you begin to notice unusual or white bumps forming on the sides of your tongue, cheeks or anywhere in your mouth, consult with your dentist or health care provider right away.
Identification
You may begin to notice small white bumps on the sides of your tongue, which may or may not cause pain. They can also cause white streaks to run down the sides of your tongue. They may cause other symptoms such as white patches on the inside of your mouth. Depending upon the cause, these patches may not scrape off your tongue too easily.
Types
A variety of conditions, such as oral lichen planus and leukoplakia, can cause white bumps to form along the sides of your tongue. Oral lichen planus is typically painless and can cause white streaks to appear with the bumps. Leukoplakia is a condition that causes precancerous sores, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, on the insides of your cheeks and sides of your tongue. A burn, which can be caused by drinking a hot beverage, also can cause white bumps to appear on the sides of your tongue and other parts of your mouth.
Effects
Leukoplakia is often irritating, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The irritation is what actually causes the condition, but once the bumps develop, the irritation may become more persistent. Dentures, broken or jagged teeth, smoking or chewing tobacco can cause irritation. With oral lichen planus, you may experience an abnormally thick outer layer on your tongue and lips. Lichen planus can spread to other parts of your body such as your genitals, eyes, ears, hair, legs and arms.
Considerations
If you begin to notice abnormal white bumps on the sides of your tongue, make an appointment with your dentist or primary care physician. Note when the bumps first appeared and record whether they have changed in size. Try to identify or eliminate possible causes by writing down which foods you've eaten, if you've tried any new foods or beverages, or if you've experienced any other illnesses.
Warning
Do not attempt to scrape off the white bumps. This may cause additional irritation or cause your tongue to bleed. Do not touch the bumps as certain conditions may spread to other parts of your body if your fingers should touch your skin before you wash your hands.
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