Canker Sores

• Aphthous stomatitis (canker sores) is an inflammation of the mouth. This inflammation causes small ulcers or blisters to form on the tongue and inside the mouth. Canker sores are usually benign and are not contagious.
  
  

Inflamed Papillae

• The taste buds (papillae) can become inflamed and develop small, painful bumps on the tongue. This inflammation is usually due to an injury or burn, such as a self-inflicted bite or eating hot foods. Inflamed papillae usually heal on their own without any treatment.
  
  

Fever Blisters

• Herpetic stomatitis (fever blisters) is a fluid-filled blister that appears on the lips, palate and tongue. These blisters originate from the herpes simplex virus that lies dormant in the body until a factor from the outside exacerbates the condition, such as stress, injury or excessive sunlight exposure. Fever blisters are very painful and can be contagious.
  
  

Oral Leukoplakia

• Oral leukoplakia is characterized by white patches that form on the inside of the cheeks, gums and tongue. These white patches are usually the result of chronic tobacco or alcohol use. In some cases, oral leukoplakia can be a precancerous condition.
  
  

Oral Cancer

• Oral cancer can appear as white patches (leukoplakia), red lumps or tumors on the side of the tongue. Other symptoms, such as mouth pain, neck pain, facial numbness, hoarseness or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can occur. Treatment for oral cancer may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy or surgery to remove the tumor.