The main difference between tongue cancer and tongue ulcers is whether the ulcerative surface on the tongue can heal or not. Tongue ulcers tend to recur and the location of each occurrence may be different, generally healing on their own within two weeks. Most are soft in texture with the diameter of the ulcer surface being less than 0.5 centimeters. If a tongue ulcer does not heal after more than two weeks, it should raise significant concern, indicating a possible malignant transformation. Tongue cancer tends to have a harder texture, larger ulcer diameter of several centimeters. Typically, it appears cauliflower-shaped, with a surface covered by a dirty pseudo-membrane, severe pain, and restricted tongue movement.