Overview

Black Hairy Tongue: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Overview

Black hairy tongue (BHT) is a benign condition that causes the tongue to appear black and furry. It is caused by a buildup of dead skin cells on the papillae, which are the small bumps on the tongue's surface.

Symptoms

• Black or brown discoloration of the tongue
• Furry or hairy appearance of the tongue
• Bad breath
• Altered taste
• Burning sensation on the tongue

In most cases, BHT is asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause any symptoms. However, some people may experience discomfort or embarrassment due to the appearance of their tongue.

Causes

• Poor oral hygiene
• Tobacco use
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs
• Medical conditions, such as diabetes and HIV
• Dry mouth
• Certain foods and beverages, such as coffee and tea

Treatment

BHT is usually a self-limiting condition and does not require treatment. However, if the condition is causing discomfort or embarrassment, there are a few treatment options available:

• Improving oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Discontinuing the use of certain medications, if possible
• Treating underlying medical conditions
• Using a tongue scraper to remove the buildup of dead skin cells

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent BHT, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:

• Practice good oral hygiene
• Avoid tobacco use
• Take care of your overall health
• See your doctor regularly for checkups