You rely on your mouth to function throughout the day. Speaking, chewing, and eating are all critical functions that you rely on, and any disruption of these can cause significant discomfort. That’s why if you’ve suddenly discovered a pimple under your tongue, it can be quite annoying and even painful.
That’s why this post will discuss what you should know about bumps under the tongue. We’ll talk about what can cause them and whether they’re harmful. Next, we’ll talk about what you should do if you’re concerned about pimples under the tongue and when to seek medical treatment.
Pimple Under The Tongue: Explained
There are many possible reasons why you may have a pimple under your tongue. These can range from canker sores, HPV lesions, oral cysts to salivary stones and even tumors.
But there’s no need to be alarmed! Most pimples under the tongue are harmless, especially in the case of canker sores, for example. They can develop anywhere inside the mouth without warning. Fortunately, however, they are not contagious, and they can develop for a variety of reasons, including:
- Stress
- Genetics
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Sensitivity to acidic or spicy foods
- Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menstruation
It’s also possible for the pimple under your tongue to be an oral cyst. They can be large sacs full of fluid that form in the oral tissues, likely near the openings of the salivary glands, which are located under the tongue.
However, another common cause is HPV infection, among the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States. HPV leads to bumps that can appear on the skin, particularly near the mouth and genitals.
Finally, a less common cause is the presence of salivary stones. When minerals from saliva accumulate near the salivary ducts under the tongue, they can form a painful bump.
Are Bumps Under The Tongue Harmful?
A good rule of thumb is to monitor the bump for growth, swelling, or pain. Canker sores are relatively harmless and resolve on their own within a week or two. However, cysts, salivary stones, and HPV sores need to be treated by a medical professional.
When To Seek Medical Treatment For Pimple Under Tongue
A doctor can examine the underside of your tongue and physically determine the nature of the pimple. They will also ask you for a description of the symptoms. After performing some diagnostic tests, they will be able to determine the nature of the bump and discuss the best course of treatment.
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or inflammation, it’s a good idea to see a dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it’s likely that the pimple under your tongue is completely harmless. And, of course, you can prevent pimples from occurring by practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. And if you have any questions about your oral health, it’s always a good idea to contact a qualified dentist.
At Champions Dental, we offer a first-class dental experience to all of our patients. With more than 15 years of experience, we pride ourselves on helping everyone maintain excellent oral health and a radiant smile. We also use the most advanced treatment techniques to offer an unmatched level of care in Houston, TX. So, if you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, we’d love to see you! Please give us a call at (281) 866-0442.