question: I have had large bumps at the top back portion of my tongue since March. I felt like I had something on my throat and I looked in the mirror to see. My tongue was brown and I scrubbed it off with a toothbrush. I then noticed what I believe are enlarged circumvallate papillae at the back of my tongue. I did some research and I quit using the Listerine whitening mouthwash. I am not sure how or why I have them or how to get rid of them. In January I went to the dentist and had dental crown procedure and received my temporary crown. When I went back the dentist was not satisfied with the fit and took another mold and put my temporary back on. The same thing occurred on my 2nd visit. It seems the irritation started between my 2nd and 3rd attempt to get my permanent crown put on. I saw my doctor and he have me some lozenges for thrush mid March. It is now May and they are starting to make my throat feel more irritated and dry. It doesnt hurt to swallow.  I have also been a smoker for several years. Any ideas on what may have cause this and how do I get rid of it?