Get help from a doctor now ›. Tongue Bumps: If the tiny red bumps on your tongue are painful, you most likely have inflamed papillae.. Inflamed papillae are usually caused by traumatic injury such as burning your tongue on hot food or beverages, or accidentally biting your tongue.Smoking can also cause your tongue to be irritated and sore.et help from a doctor now ›. Tongue Bumps: If the tiny red bumps on your tongue are painful, you most likely have inflamed papillae.. Inflamed papillae are usually caused by traumatic injury such as burning your tongue on hot food or beverages, or accidentally biting your tongue.