common
Black hairy tongue
Black hairy tongue (BHT) is a condition of the tongue in which the small bumps on the tongue elongate with black or brown discoloration, giving a black and hairy appearance. The appearance may be alarming, but it is a harmless condition. Predisposing factors include smoking, xerostomia, soft diet, poor oral hygiene and certain medications. Management is facilitated by improving oral hygiene, especially scraping or brushing the tongue.
Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.
How it's found
- ·Based on appearance
Treatment
- ·Reassurance
More in Mouth & Teeth
Dental caries (cavities)Gum disease (periodontitis)Oral cancerCleft lip and palateMouth ulcersOral submucous fibrosisTonsillitisOral thrushLeukoplakiaTMJ disorderDental abscessGingivitis
See all of Mouth & Teeth →Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.