The main difference between tongue ulcers and tongue cancer is whether the ulceration on the tongue can heal or not. Tongue ulcers tend to recur and each outbreak may occur at a different site. They have a self-healing nature and usually heal on their own within two weeks. Most are soft in texture and the diameter of the ulcer surface is less than 0.5 centimeters. If a tongue ulcer does not heal after more than two weeks, it should be highly suspect and suggests the possibility of cancerous changes. Tongue cancer is characterized by a harder texture and larger ulcer diameter, several centimeters or more, typically with a cauliflower-like appearance, a surface covered in filthy pseudomembrane, severe pain, and restricted tongue movement.