Black hairy tongue is a condition in which dark discoloration and thickening occur in the middle back of the tongue, usually seen in people who smoke, have poor oral hygiene, have a suppressed immune system, or have a medical condition that limits oral hygiene.
Who can have black hairy tongue?
The black hairy tongue is usually seen in;
- Smokers
- People with oral hygiene disorders
- Intensive use of oxidising mouthwashes
- People with dry mouth
- People without teeth
- Intensive alcohol use
- HIV positive patients
- After the use of antibiotics
- Patients fed with pureed or liquid foods
- Due to some antipsychotic drugs.
How is black hairy tongue formed?
The structure described as “hairy tongue” is actually refers to elongated and thickened tongue buds. This is due to the inability to remove dead tissue on the tongue buds. The black appearance is caused by “porphyrin” producing bacteria or it occurs due to the proliferation of fungi in this area.
How to treat black hairy tongue?
The first step in treatment is to identify the factors that cause black hairy tongue formation control and good oral hygiene.
To do this , use a tooth or tongue brush daily Removal of dead tissues can be facilitated by brushing. Tongue can be cleaned with carbonated water. Smoking should be stopped. If oxidating mouthwashes are used frequently , they should be discontinued.
In cases that persist despite these, topical or systemic retinoids under the control of a physician. Urea solutions, trichloric acid or salicylic acid solutions can be used for therapeutic purposes.
In resistant cases, carbon dioxide laser or electrocauterisation are among the alternative treatment methods that can be applied.
