Black or Discolored Tongue

Smoking, poor oral hygiene, immunocompromise and medical conditions that make oral care difficult are associated with black hairy tongue. Many medicines have also been reported in connection with it, including some antibiotics and antipsychotics.

Gentle tongue brushing and good oral self-care are the practical first measures described for hairy or black tongue. A well-balanced diet also supports general mouth care.

The tongue is examined closely, with questions about when the change began, earlier episodes, pain, swelling, taste, dentures, tobacco, alcohol and medicines. Blood tests or a biopsy may be used to check other conditions.

Treatment addresses the cause. Gentle brushing is the stated treatment for black hairy tongue; hairy tongue can sometimes be treated with antifungal medicine. Medication or products should not replace finding the reason for the change.

Good oral self-care, gentle cleaning of the tongue, a balanced diet and stopping habits that promote black hairy tongue are the measures named for prevention. Medication-related risk is reduced by attention to oral hygiene while taking the implicated medicines.

Tongue problems may also involve pain, swelling, breathing difficulty, eating difficulty, changes in taste or trouble moving the tongue. Glossitis can cause redness, swelling or loss of papillae.

Seek prompt medical attention if tongue swelling begins to make breathing difficult. Arrange assessment when the problem persists or makes eating or breathing difficult.