Traumatic fibroma or irritation fibroma: This is a common, benign lesion that can occur on the tongue due to irritation or trauma, such as biting the tongue. It presents as a small, firm, and usually painless bump.

Mucous cyst: A mucous cyst, also known as a mucocele, can form on the tongue when a salivary gland becomes blocked. It appears as a soft, painless, and translucent bump.
Fissured tongue or geographic tongue: While not exactly a bump, these conditions can cause the tongue to appear bumpy or irregular. Fissured tongue is characterized by deep grooves, and geographic tongue has patches of depapillation, giving it a map-like appearance.
Oral candidiasis (thrush): This fungal infection can cause white patches on the tongue, which might be perceived as bumps. It's more common in immunocompromised individuals or those with poor oral hygiene.

Squamous cell carcinoma: Although rare, this is the most common type of oral cancer. A bump on the tongue that is persistent, grows, bleeds, or does not heal should raise suspicion for cancer. Early detection is crucial for treatment outcomes.
Tuberculosis: Oral tuberculosis can manifest as a bump or ulcer on the tongue, among other symptoms. Given its potential severity and the importance of early treatment, it should not be missed, especially in high-risk populations.
Syphilis: The primary stage of syphilis can present with a painless ulcer (chancre) on the tongue, which might be mistaken for a bump. It's essential to consider syphilis in the differential diagnosis due to its potential for serious complications if left untreated.

Lingual thyroid: A rare congenital anomaly where thyroid tissue is located at the base of the tongue, which can present as a bump.
Granular cell tumor: A rare, usually benign tumor that can occur on the tongue, presenting as a firm bump.
Lymphangioma: A rare congenital condition that can cause a bump on the tongue due to an abnormal formation of lymphatic vessels.