Though your doctor can tell you for certain, what youre feeling may be a tongue wart.

Also good: They typically do not cause discomfort, she says.

So, what causes warts on the tongue?

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Many strains of HPV can lead to oral HPV.

HPV is spread through kissing or oral, vaginal, or anal sex.

In fact, 9 out of 10 HPV cases resolve on their own, according to the CDC.

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director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

But very rarely, HPV can lead to cancer.

Tongue warts vs. canker sores vs. cold sores: Whats the difference?

Its Amazing How Its All Connected.

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Again, most cases of oral HPV clear up on their own within a few years.

But very rarely, certain strains of oral HPV can lead to oropharyngeal cancer.

Are oral warts an STD?

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Tongue warts are resulting from oral HPV, a subtype of human papillomavirus.

HPV is the most common STI, according to theCDC.

Are tongue warts rare?

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director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

Oral HPV is a common condition, says Dr. Thosani.

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