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Black hairy tongue is a temporary, harmless oral condition characterized by black hairs on the surface of the tongue. This is the result of the accumulation of dead skin cells on the small tissues (retinal papillae) on the surface of the tongue.
1. Signs of black hairy tongue
Although black hairy tongue looks dangerous, it doesn't actually cause any serious health problems. Black hairy tongue does not cause pain to the patient.
Some signs and symptoms of a black hairy tongue, including:
Discoloration of the tongue, the tongue is black, or it can be brown, brown, green, yellow or white Hair on the surface of the tongue Changes in taste or a metallic taste in your mouth Bad breath, bad breath Overgrowth of tongue papillae can make you feel nauseous or itchy Tongue Burning sensation Although a black hairy tongue is often It is not dangerous and is only a temporary condition, however, you should see a doctor if you have the following signs:
You are worried about the condition of your tongue Black hairy tongue that persists even though you brush your teeth and brush your tongue twice a day
2. What causes a black hairy tongue?
Black hairy tongues are often the result of longer papillae because they don't shed dead skin cells as they should. This makes the surface of the tongue look like hair. Food debris, bacteria or other organisms can become lodged in the papilla and lead to discoloration of the tongue.
Although the cause of a black hairy tongue is not always determined, there are a number of common factors that cause it, including:
Bacterial imbalance or normal yeast in the mouth after using antibiotics Poor oral hygiene Dry mouth (xerostomia) Frequent use of mouthwashes that contain irritating oxidizing agents, such as peroxide Using tobacco Drinking too much coffee or black tea Excessive alcohol use Eating a diet full of soft foods does not help remove dead cells from the tongue
3. Diagnosing black hairy tongue
Diagnosis of black hairy tongue is based on the shape of the tongue surface and the causes or factors that cause it. The diagnosis of a black hairy tongue involves ruling out other factors that can cause similar symptoms in the tongue, including:
Color change on the surface of the tongue (pigmentation) Food or medicine left in the mouth Tongue papilloma Fungal or viral infections Oral lesions that occur on the tongue, such as leukoplakia, Black tongue (black hairy denture) from using products containing bismuth, such as Pepto-Bismol.
4. Treatment of black hairy tongue
Black hairy tongue usually does not require medical treatment as it is a temporary and harmless condition.
Practicing good oral hygiene and eliminating factors that can cause this condition - such as avoiding tobacco use or irritating mouthwash - helps address a black hairy tongue.
You can overcome black hairy tongue with the following measures:
Tongue Brush: Brush your tongue gently every time you brush your teeth to remove dead cells, bacteria and food debris. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles or a flexible tongue scraper. Brush your teeth after meals: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and especially after each meal, using a fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day: Proper flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Regular dental check-ups: Professional teeth cleanings and regular dental check-ups can help prevent problems or detect dental problems early. Maintain proper nutrition: Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet containing fresh fruits and vegetables. If the condition of the black hairy tongue becomes more and more severe, you should see your doctor for treatment to remove the bacteria or yeast. In addition, your doctor may prescribe you to use a topical medication, such as tretinoin (Retin-A). If all the above measures fail, surgery is the last option to remove the papilloma, possibly with laser surgery.
Before seeing your dentist, you need to prepare some necessary information such as:
Symptoms you have been experiencing Prescription medications that you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, substances Any other supplements and over-the-counter medications you're taking, including the dosage. In addition, your dentist will ask some questions about black hair-related symptoms and hygiene, care, and treatment issues. your dental care, including:
When did you first notice the appearance of symptoms? Are symptoms present occasionally or continuously? Do you regularly brush or clean dentures? Do you regularly floss? What kind of mouthwash do you use? How much coffee or tea do you drink? Do you use tobacco? What other medications, herbal products or supplements are you taking? Do you have to breathe through your mouth? Have you had any recent infections or illnesses? Clean oral hygiene is the best method to deal with black hairy tongue. If the condition still does not improve, you should see a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Customers can directly go to Vinmec Health system nationwide to visit or contact the hotline here for support.
Articles refer to the source: Mayoclinic.org
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