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The key to getting rid of bumps on your tongue lies in the causes. If you can determine the underlying cause of your problem, you can conclude what the most appropriate treatment would be. These treatments can include a salt water rinse, eliminating certain foods or drinks from your diet, improving your dental health, or simply waiting it out.

Adapt your diet:

It is important to note that no matter the cause of the bumps on your tongue, you should avoid eating anything that can aggravate or irritate them. Try to avoid ingesting anything that can trigger an uncomfortable reaction, including fruits and other highly acidic foods, foods that are very salty, and sweet things like candy and soda. In some cases, acidic foods can even be the cause of the formation of tongue bumps.

General oral health:
Bacteria can find its way into any small lesions in your tongue or mouth. To keep these issues at bay, pay better attention to your oral health. Make sure you are brushing your teeth two or three times per day, floss every day, and brush your tongue each night before going to sleep (even after brushing your teeth, many bacteria can remain on your tongue). Think about using a mouthwash if you experience persistent outbreaks.

Simple homemade remedies:
If there are any bumps, sores, or lesions in your mouth, rinse out your mouth with salt water. Mix about a tablespoon of salt with a cup of water for the ideal consistency. Take in a mouthful of salt water and hold it for 30 seconds (make sure not to swallow it; spit it out when you're finished). Yes, it tastes awful, but it can relieve discomfort, clean out any bacteria present, and prevent potential infections.

Be patient:
Think about what you have eaten recently. If you recently tried a new food or drink for the first time, if you have been eating a lot of fruit, if you began taking some kind of medicine, or if you burned the inside of your mouth, you are likely looking at a short term issue. When these are the causes of tongue bumps, they will typically disappear within a few days of ridding yourself of the cause. Additionally, some people are naturally prone to canker sores. Canker sores are acne-like bumps that can occasionally form in the mouth or on the tongue. They are typically painful, but they are not contagious and they go away within about a week of forming. If you are dealing with canker sores, a reaction to something you ingested, or a minor bacterial issue, follow the treatments outlined above and simply wait a few days for the bumps to disappear. As always, when you are unsure of what you are dealing with, consult your doctor.

Rare worst case scenario:
While a rarity, in worst case scenarios, a tongue bump can be cancerous. According to the Mayo Clinic, an oral cancer can be characterized by a hard sore in your mouth that doesn't disappear and possibly grows, persistent pain in your mouth, and difficulty with oral functions like chewing and swallowing. If you are concerned that this may be the case, contact your doctor for an official diagnosis.

If you have bumps on your tongue, it is usually nothing to be concerned about. Simply think about recent changes in your diet and lifestyle, exercise good oral hygiene, and give it a few days. Additionally, use salt water to relieve any pain and prevent infections from forming. In most cases, you will see your problem improve or disappear altogether.

Learn more about this author, Art Vandelay.
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