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What Causes Enlarged Circumvallate Papillae?

Posted on Mon, 26 May 2014

Question: I seem to have unusually large circumvalate papillae. they are not painful do not seem to cause any trouble only when I compared them to the size which my wife has on her tongue, my papialle were more enlarged. I don't feel as though there are obstructing anything but I am not sure if they should be that big in general.

Answered by Dr. Neha Sumra (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No need to worry.its normal.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing in.

Circumvallate papilla are responsible for bitter taste perception & 10-12 in number located in v- shape in posterior of tongue.Enlarged papillae should not be considered as major problem.They are normal & some cases chief causes can be:-
- excessive smoking
- canker sores
- medical conditions like gastro oesophageal reflux disorder
- infection
- traumatic bite or sharp tooth
- in response to excessive hot & spicy food stuff.

You need to rule out the cause & treat it accordingly.
Try to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Visit your dentist for further information.

Hope I answered your query

Wishing you good health

Regards
Dr. Neha Sumra

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D