Black Tongue Symptoms

Black tongue, sometimes called black hairy tongue, is usually a harmless condition. It is caused by a fungus that grows on the top of the tongue.

Causes

Black tongue is usually the result of poor hygiene or the use of antibiotics. This disease is common among smokers.

Effects

In some cases, Black Tongue can cause pain, swelling, ulcers in the mouth, unusual color and even a split in the tongue.

Time Frame

This condition is temporary and usually doesn't last long. The black furry appearance of the tongue can usually be resolved with treatment.

Treatment

Improving oral hygiene, including using a tongue scraper, can help to get rid of black tongue. If an antibiotic was the cause, the condition will subside as soon as the antibiotic treatment is finished.

Features

Pepto-Bismol has been known to turn the tongue black. This is caused by bismuth in Pepto-Bismol reacting to sulfur in saliva (sulfur).

Considerations

Although it is called black tongue, this condition can actually turn the tongue different colors as well. Brown, white, green or pink are usually the other colors associated with this disease.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Pepto-Bismol