Doctor issues warning to anyone who notices they suddenly have 'tongue pimples'
It's clear that many of us have experienced those little bumps on our tongue seemingly appearing out of nowhere before becoming seriously irritated and making for quite an annoyingly persistent pain.
Commonly referred to as 'tongue pimples', these tiny bumps make it super uncomfortable going about daily life - whether that's eating and drinking, brushing our teeth and even just talking.
And while a load of people have experienced this pesky phenomenon, not many of us actually know why we get it.
So, to help us understand it a little better, a doctor has given us the lowdown on everything we need to know about 'tongue pimples' including one very important warning.
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What are 'tongue pimples'?
Dr Claire Merrifield, GP and medical director at Selph explained to Tyla: "If you look at your tongue, you’ll notice that it’s covered in small bumps. These are the papillae, and your taste buds are located within them."
And, if you stick your tongue right out, you’ll notice a series of larger bumps in a V-shape at the back of the tongue which Claire says are your
circumvallate papillae.
"People commonly think these papillae are 'pimples' on their tongues," she continues. "Often, it’s just that if you’ve never looked closely at your tongue you may have never noticed these bumps.
"But, on occasion, they can become inflamed or larger than normal."
Why do we get 'tongue pimples'?
According to Claire, the majority of the time, tongue 'pimples' are simply the normal anatomy of the tongue.
She shares: "We don’t typically spend much time examining the surface of our tongue in a mirror and sometimes people will look at a magnifying mirror or have a cleaner tongue than normal and worry that there’s something wrong.
"It can happen that the papillae on the tongue get bigger than normal, called papillitis."
Claire tells Tyla there are 'a number of reasons this can happen' including irritation from biting, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, poor oral hygiene, food allergies and sometimes a viral infection.
Are 'tongue pimples' contagious?
Fortunately, no.
The doctor explains that tongue pimples are not contagious and 'should not be a huge cause for concern'.
Claire assures: "Most tongue bumps are harmless and resolve on their own within a few days. If you notice any bumps on the tongue that are abnormal for you it’s important to avoid spicy foods and alcohol, stay hydrated and make sure your oral hygiene is good.
"Flossing your teeth, brushing twice a day and gentle tongue scraping are all beneficial. It’s best to avoid mouthwash unless you have a painful mouth or open sore in which case a chlorhexidine mouthwash for a short time can help."
However, the expert urges, if the pesky bumps persist for more than a few days, start to grow or bleed, begin to feel painful or you develop a fever, it’s important to consult with your dentist or healthcare professional as soon as you can.
Should you pop 'tongue pimples'?
Claire says you should avoid popping tongue pimples by all means as this can lead to infection.
"Breaking the surface of a tongue pimple can create an open wound that is then exposed to bacteria," she warns. "It can also lead to increased inflammation which can cause more swelling, pain and a longer healing time."
What should you do if you have 'tongue pimples'?
"If you’re concerned about any new lumps, bumps or sores anywhere in the body, never delay in seeking advice from a healthcare professional," Claire reiterates.
"It’s also really important for your general health to go for an annual dental check-up.
"Dentists don’t just check your teeth, they also examine your tongue, gums and glands around the mouth and neck and are a great source of knowledge for anything you’re unsure about."
Rhiannon Ingle