Sore Spots on Tongue

The sensory organs that help us perceive what goes on around us include the eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin. Each of these organs have specialized cells along with receptors that respond to specific stimuli. The signals are then carried to the brain, which interprets them. This helps us see, hear, smell, touch and taste.

The tongue is a sensory organ that carries the receptors for taste. It is basically a group of intrinsic and extrinsic muscles that allows us to taste and also helps in swallowing food. It also helps in the articulation of speech. There are four extrinsic muscles that attach to the U-shaped hyoid bone located at the base of the tongue. While these muscles help in moving the tongue, the four intrinsic muscles help in rolling this muscular organ.

The tongue is covered with mucous membrane and stays moist with the secretions from the salivary glands along with secretions from small glands that are present on the tongue itself. The rough texture of the tongue is attributed to the presence of small bumps called papillae.

The receptors for taste, which are commonly known as taste buds, are located within these bumps. Since the tongue is constantly being used as we eat or while we talk, tongue problems can make one feel very uncomfortable. In this article, we will find out the reason why one may develop sore spots on tongue.

Sore bumps on tongue can be caused due to a wide range of reasons. Many a time, painful sore spots on the tongue may be a result of trauma to the tongue. Self-inflicted injuries caused due to accidentally biting the tongue, could even lead to aphthous ulcerations or canker sores.

Dentures or rough edges of the teeth can also irritate the tongue, and lead to development of red sore spots on the tongue. Inflammation of the tongue, which is medically referred to as glossitis, could even be attributed to food allergies.

Consuming foods or beverages that are scalding hot, could also cause sores on the tongue. Swelling or soreness could also occur as a result of having foods or drugs that one may be allergic to. At times, the tongue may react to harsh chemicals that might be used in toothpastes, mouthwashes or breath fresheners. Tongue problems could also be attributed to nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance and a variety of medical conditions.

Painful bumps that may appear on the tongue could be caused due to viral, fungal or bacterial infections. Oral herpes is one such virus that causes sores in mouth. Oral lichen planus, oral thrush and leukoplakia are some of the medical conditions that may lead to development of white spots on tongue.

Oral lichen planus is an autoimmune condition that may give rise to white patches and lend a lacy appearance to the tongue. Oral thrush, on the other hand, occurs when the mucous membranes in the mouth are attacked by a yeast fungus called Candida albicans.

People with a weakened immune system are at a greater risk of developing this condition. Prolonged use of antibiotics and the resultant decrease in the numbers of beneficial bacteria, also makes one susceptible to this condition. Excessive consumption of chewing tobacco or smoking can also affect oral health and lead to the formation of sores on tongue. Chewing tobacco can lead to excessive growth of cells in the oral cavity and lead to development of oral cancer.

It is extremely important to ascertain the condition responsible for causing sores on the tongue. If tongue sores are caused due to an allergy, use of antihistamines may help. If dentures or teeth with sharp edges are irritating the tongue, consult a dentist immediately.

If you hurt your tongue accidentally, you can apply ice on it. It will surely provide relief. One must also refrain from consuming hot or spicy foods or beverages during this time. Gargling or rinsing the mouth with a lukewarm saline solution can also help in lowering the risk of infections.

Chewing tobacco is one product that one must avoid. Excessive consumption of tobacco can increase the risk of oral cancer, so, it's important that you refrain from using this harmful product. Mouth sores or tongue sores may be caused due to poor oral hygiene as well, so, make it a point to keep your teeth as well as tongue clean.

If you don't pay attention to oral hygiene, you are giving an open invitation to bacteria or other disease-causing agents. Certain dental products may contain harsh chemicals that could irritate the mucous membranes, so, buy the right dental products.

Though sore bumps that may appear on tongue are usually caused due to trauma or food allergies, these could even be associated with infections or oral cancer. If sore spots or bumps appear on the tongue every now and then, the wise thing to do would be to consult a doctor. One must also pay attention to oral hygiene, and refrain from excessive consumption of acidic foods or sugary beverages. Since nutritional deficiencies can also cause sores on the tongue, one must follow a healthy diet.