Why Do I Have a Bump or Pimple Under My Tongue?

Do you have a bump or pimple under your tongue? Many people develop this condition at some point in their lives. While it’s often nothing to worry about, it can be painful and annoying. Let’s explore the causes of pimples under the tongue, and some tips for how to treat them.

Oral Trauma: One of the most common causes of developing pimples under your tongue is trauma. If you bite down on something too hard, bump it with another object, etc., then there’s a chance that this could lead to an infection, in which case they’ll heal within 7-14 days without treatment, but if not treated, can last longer than six weeks before going away completely! 

Canker Sores: Another common cause of a bump under the tongue are canker sores. Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can occur anywhere in the mouth. They’re often caused by stress or trauma to the mouth, but certain foods or medications can also trigger them. Canker sores usually go away on their own within a week or two. You can try these home remedies to speed up healing.  

HPV Lesions: This can also cause bumps under the tongue. HPV is a virus that can cause warts to form on the skin. These warts can occur anywhere in the mouth, including under the tongue. HPV lesions heal themselves, but in some cases, they may need to be removed by a doctor.

Oral Cysts: Oral cysts are small, fluid-filled sacs that can form anywhere in the mouth. They’re often painless, but they can become infected. If an oral cyst becomes infected, it may need to be drained by a doctor or dental hygienist.

Salivary Stones: Sometimes, salivary stones can cause bumps under the tongue. Salivary stones are small, hard masses that form in the salivary glands. They can block the flow of saliva and cause pain or swelling.

Is a Pimple Under The Tongue Harmful?

Most bumps under the tongue are harmless and will go away on their own. However, some pimples may be a sign of a more serious condition. If you have a bump under your tongue that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or pain, you should see a doctor. Pimples that are large, painful, or persistent may also be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Treatment Options For:

Bumps under the tongue due to trauma/canker sores:

If the pimple is due to a bite or trauma, it will usually go away on its own within a week or two. You can help the healing process by:

• Applying a cold compress to the area for 20 minutes several times a day.
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Avoiding hot beverages and spicy foods, which can irritate the area.
• Avoiding hard or crunchy foods, which can irritate the area.

Pimples under the tongue due to HPV lesions:

There’s no treatment available for the oral HPV infection. According to MedicalNewsToday, “Researchers have tried and tested a range of topical medications on HPV growths to no effect. Currently, surgical removal is the only way to treat HPV growths. Some doctors will also use cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the growths.”

Bump under the tongue due to oral cysts:

Treatment for this typically involves draining the cyst. Your doctor will make a small incision in the cyst and then drain the fluid. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to help clear the infection. In some cases, the cyst may need to be removed surgically.

When To See A Doctor Or Dentist For A Bump Under The Tongue?

If you have a painful lump under your tongue, your doctor or dentist may be able to diagnose it by looking at it. If the pimple is large or inflamed, they may need to perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions. 

Conclusion

Most bumps under the tongue are harmless and heal on their own. However, some pimples may be a sign of a more serious condition. If you have an oral pimple under your tongue that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or pain, visit your dentist. You can prevent them from occurring by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to ask your doctor or dentist.

At Rodeo Dental & Orthodontics, we offer a variety of services to ensure you have the best oral health possible. If you are concerned about a lump under your tongue or any other oral health issue, please call us or schedule an appointment online today. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health!