Common tongue problems
The good news is that many tongue problems will go away on their own or are easily treated, although there are exceptions to this. Some common tongue problems are:
• Canker sores. These small bumps can be painful and annoying, but they aren’t contagious and will usually go away on their own. Besides the tongue, they may also appear on the inner cheek or inner lips.
• Oral thrush. These are painful white or yellow lesions, and your doctor or dentist may recommend antifungal medication.
• Bite or other injury. Accidentally biting down on your tongue can hurt way more than it should, and it can cause temporary swelling, but this will pass on its own.
• Tumors. A tumor may appear as a sore spot or lump and cause pain, numbness, swelling, and bleeding. You should see your doctor right away if you suspect a tongue tumor.
• Nutritional deficiency. Your tongue may be sore and burning because your diet is lacking in some way. You may be deficient in vitamin B12 or iron. Make sure to eat right and take multivitamins.
• Burning mouth syndrome. This can be very painful and can last years, and besides a burning sensation, your tongue may feel numb or tingly. Your doctor or dentist will diagnose the problem and give you treatment options.
• Cold sores. These are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are very contagious. They can appear both inside and outside the mouth, and can cause a burning sensation and pain when they are on the tongue. You should ask your doctor about cold sore treatment options.
How Can Your Dentist Evaluate Changes in Your Tongue?
Not every change in your tongue is serious, but persistent soreness, unusual patches, or lumps shouldn’t be ignored. At Pacific Northwest Smiles, Dr. Darren Greenhalgh can examine your tongue and surrounding oral tissues to look for signs of irritation, infection, or other concerns. Depending on what he finds, he may recommend treatment, further testing, or a referral to another healthcare provider.
Changes in the tongue can leave patients unsure about what is normal and when to seek care. The Dental Marketing Secrets Podcast explores how dental teams address patient questions and explain oral health concerns in a way that is easier to understand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my tongue hurt even when I haven’t injured it?
Tongue pain can result from canker sores, oral thrush, nutritional deficiencies, or irritation. Persistent pain should be evaluated by a dentist or doctor.
What causes white patches on the tongue?
White patches may develop from oral thrush, irritation, or other oral conditions. Patches that cannot be wiped away or persist for two weeks need professional evaluation.
When should I see a dentist for tongue problems in Mill Creek, WA?
See a dentist if tongue pain, sores, lumps, or discoloration persist for two weeks or worsen. Pacific Northwest Smiles in Mill Creek, WA, can evaluate oral health concerns.
A healthy tongue is part of a healthy mouth – something that the staff at Pacific Northwest Smiles specializes in! If you are experiencing any pain in your mouth or if it’s just time for a tooth cleaning, contact the office in Mill Creek, Washington. Call 425-357-6400 today!