Why Do I Have Pimples Under My Tongue?

“Why do I have bumps on the back of my tongue?” is one of those questions we’re used to answering at Rodeo Dental. The many little bumps on your tongue are papillae, which help you taste food, and they are perfectly normal. Sometimes, however, people notice larger pimple-like bumps under their tongue. Those bumps are not papillae, but again, they’re usually nothing to worry about. Let’s explore their causes and what to do about them.

What Are Pimples Under the Tongue?

Description of Common Symptoms

Bumps under the tongue can be painful. Even if they’re not painful, a red or white “pimple” anywhere on your tongue is frustrating. You know it’s there, and because it’s not normal, it takes up some of your attention. You can’t even poke at it with your tongue because, well, it’s on your tongue.

Most tongue bumps are harmless and typically disappear within a week. Ask your dentist to check any lumps that persist, even if they don't cause pain, as a long-lasting lump may indicate an underlying condition that requires attention.

Are They Really Pimples?

Nope! A lump under the tongue might be a canker sore or salivary cyst, though. Lumps may also indicate trauma or infection.

Common Causes of Bumps Under the Tongue

Canker Sores

A canker sore is a small, painful ulcer. Canker sores can occur anywhere in the mouth, including on or under the tongue. Stress and physical mouth trauma can result in canker sores, as can medication or spicy and acidic foods.

Canker sores typically disappear within a couple of weeks. If they cause discomfort, try some of the home remedies discussed further down the page.

Mucoceles (Salivary Cysts)

Mucoceles, or salivary cysts, are fluid-filled sacs often caused by salivary duct obstruction or trauma. Salivary cysts can develop anywhere in the mouth, including on the tongue or the floor of the mouth.

Irritation or Trauma

When we’re asked, “Why do I have bumps on the back of my tongue?” we ask whether you bit your tongue recently. Physical trauma is a common cause of tongue bumps. Tongue trauma can lead to infections, which the body usually heals within one to two weeks.

Oral Infections (Viral or Bacterial)

Bacterial and viral infections can also result in annoying tongue bumps. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) can cause small warts under the tongue, which usually heal on their own. If  HPV warts persist, surgical removal is possible.

Allergic Reactions or Medication Side Effects

Some medications can cause bumps under the tongue. Bumps can also be a sign of an allergic reaction. In either case, seeing a dentist to isolate the cause is important.

Home Remedies and Treatment Options

Salt Water Rinses and Oral Care Tips

Salt water rinses reduce inflammation and swelling, relieving bump pain. Mix one teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water (we mean warm, not hot water!). Swish the mixture in your mouth or gargle for ten seconds, then spit it out. You can rinse several times a day if the bump causes you pain.

Brush gently to avoid irritating the bump. If the cyst or sore is painful, avoid brushing the affected area.

Over-the-Counter Solutions

Several OTC products can help manage tongue pimple symptoms. Oral numbing gels and rinses help alleviate pain, and you can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) topical mouth ulcer treatments that promote healing. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen are good choices for pain.

Professional Treatment Options

Dentists and doctors can help remove persistent lumps. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat infections or recommend draining fluid from a cyst. In some cases, tongue bumps are removed surgically.

When to See a Dentist or Doctor

Most bumps under the tongue are harmless and will go away on their own. However, some pimples can be symptoms of a more serious condition. See a doctor if you have a bump under your tongue accompanied by fever, swelling, or pain. A doctor should also evaluate large, painful, or persistent pimples and may remove the pimple for a biopsy to determine the underlying causes.

Got a lump under your tongue? Contact your local

Rodeo Dental and Orthodontics

center today for help.