I have a few very tiny bumps above the lip that are only visible up close in a mirror in good lighting. is it likely oral herpes?

They might.: You need to see a family doc to verify if there is herpetic lesions.

Possible early stage: The earliest presentation of oral herpes can be as subtle as an abnormal sensation in the affected area. Blistering could follow ultimately resulting in an open ulceration that is more intrusive than what you describe. If these bumps have been present for more than a few days and haven't changed appreciably, likely not herpes. If they progress and ultimately resolve, it could be.