Black hairy tongue is a condition that sounds frightening and also looks scary, but it is not life-threatening. This is caused by the large amount of fungi or bacteria in the mouth, making it look hairy and black. This article will discuss black hairy tongue symptoms, causes, and treatment.
What is Black Hairy Tongue?
A black hairy tongue, also known as lingua villosa nigra, is a relatively harmless and temporary condition that affects the tongue’s appearance. Despite its alarming name, black hairy tongue is not hairy or dangerous. Instead, it refers to a buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and debris on the tongue’s surface, causing it to appear black or dark in color.
The tongue contains thousands of tiny rounded projections, which are called papillae. The papillae, normally pinkish-white in color, are located on the surface and shed off regularly. These papillae play a significant role as they are connected to the sensory nerves that manage a person’s sense of taste.
In rare cases, papillae do not shed off regularly and tend to grow up to fifteen times the normal size. Food pigments, yeast, and bacteria get stuck as the papillae grow. A black hairy tongue is caused by significant growth of yeast or bacteria trapped between these papillae. As the food pigments and plaque buildup decompose, it results in dark pigmentation. This makes the tongue appear black and hairy.
What are the Symptoms of Black Hairy Tongue?
Black hair tongue is not painful but may cause a burning sensation due to the growth of yeast called Candida albicans. The signs and symptoms of black hairy tongue are:
- Black discoloration of the surface of the tongue (the color may be brown, green, yellow, white, or tan)
- Furry or hairy appearance
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Metallic taste
- Tickling feeling in the roof of the mouth
What are the Causes of Black Hairy Tongue
Understanding the causes of the black hairy tongue is essential for effective prevention and treatment.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the primary causes of the black hairy tongue is inadequate oral hygiene. Failure to brush the teeth and clean the tongue properly can lead to a buildup of bacteria, dead skin cells, and food particles on the tongue’s surface. Over time, this accumulation can cause the papillae to grow longer, leading to the characteristic black appearance.
2. Tobacco and Alcohol Use
The consumption of tobacco and alcohol products has been linked to an increased risk of developing a black hairy tongue. These substances contain chemicals that can stain the tongue and contribute to debris buildup. Additionally, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can lead to dry mouth, which further exacerbates the condition.
3. Poor Diet
Dietary factors can also play a role in developing a black hairy tongue. A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables, can disrupt the natural balance of the oral microbiome. This imbalance can encourage the overgrowth of bacteria and contribute to the accumulation of debris on the tongue.
4. Antibiotics and Medications
Certain medications, particularly antibiotics, can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the mouth. This disruption can result in an overgrowth of bacteria on the tongue’s surface, leading to a black hairy tongue. Other medications associated with this condition include bismuth, which treats heartburn and diarrhea.
5. Dry Mouth
A dry mouth, or xerostomia, is characterized by decreased saliva production. Saliva removes bacteria and dead cells from the tongue’s surface. When saliva production is reduced, these substances can accumulate, causing a black hairy tongue.
6. Poorly Fitting Dentures
Ill-fitting or unclean dentures can contribute to developing a black hairy tongue. Dentures that do not fit properly can irritate and disrupt the natural shedding of dead skin cells on the tongue’s surface. This can lead to the buildup of debris and the elongation of papillae.
Natural Treatments to Get Rid of Black Hairy Tongue
Here are the most effective home remedies to get rid of black hairy tongues.
1. Proper Oral Hygiene
The best way to remove tongue discoloration is by practicing good oral health.
- Brush your tongue – When brushing your teeth, do not forget to brush your tongue gently to eliminate bacteria, food debris, and dead cells. It is best to use a tongue scraper. Brush your teeth and tongue at least two times a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once daily– Flossing can eliminate plaques and food particles trapped between the teeth.
- Gargle after eating – If you cannot brush your teeth immediately after eating, make sure that you gargle with warm water to prevent food particles from accumulating in your mouth.
- Visit a dentist regularly – Your dentist can help you prevent oral problems.
If you smoke, stop this habit, as tobacco products contribute to tongue discoloration. It is also important to reduce alcohol consumption.
2. Salt
One of the best ways to get rid of a black hairy tongue is salt. Salt can effectively scrape and eliminate accumulated plaque and dead cells. Salt also contains antiseptic properties that can help in killing bacteria.
- Sprinkle enough amount of salt on your tongue.
- Scrub it with a toothbrush gently for one minute.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Repeat this treatment two times a day to clear the yeast and bacteria.
Alternatively, mix one teaspoon of salt with water and use the solution as a mouthwash. Repeat this twice to three times daily to get rid of a black hairy tongue.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the effective natural treatments for the black hairy tongue. It has exfoliating properties that can remove the plaques on the tongue’s surface. It also helps in maintaining good pH levels in the mouth.
- Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with lemon juice to make a paste.
- Apply the paste over your tongue and brush it gently.
- Rinse it off with warm water.
- Repeat this treatment daily to get rid of the black hairy tongue.
You can also add one-half teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and use this as a mouthwash. Rinse your mouth with this solution to get rid of bacteria.
Read:10 Health Benefits of Bath with Baking Soda
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera contains healing, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in treating oral problems effectively.
- Cut a leaf of aloe vera and extract its gel.
- Mix the gel with enough amount of water to make a juice.
- Use this juice as mouthwash and switch it around for two to three minutes.
- Spit it out. Repeat this treatment several times a day.
5. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is one of the best ways to clean the mouth. It is effective in eliminating yeast and assists in removing toxins from the body. Here’s how to get rid of a black hairy tongue with oil pulling.
- Before brushing your teeth, put one tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth.
- Switch the oil between your teeth, around the mouth, and under the tongue. Do this for at least fifteen minutes.
- Spit out the oil in the trash and wash your mouth it warm water.
- Repeat this treatment once a day to keep your mouth clean.
6. Turmeric
One of the cheapest and easiest ways to eliminate the black hairy tongue is by using turmeric. It has antibacterial properties that can effectively eliminate the plaques and food residue on the surface of your tongue.
This delicious spice can also prevent bacteria from growing. Here’s how to use turmeric to treat a black hairy tongue.
- Mix one-half teaspoon of turmeric powder with lemon juice to form a paste.
- Put the paste over your tongue and scrub it for two to five minutes.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat this treatment daily to get rid of the black hairy tongue.
You can also mix one-half teaspoon of turmeric powder with water and use it as a mouthwash. Repeat this once or twice a day to keep your mouth free from bacteria.
7. Probiotics
Probiotics are an excellent treatment for a black hairy tongue, especially if the main reason is the growth of candida fungus. With its L. acidophilus and B. lactis cultures content, probiotics can inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria.
- Get one probiotics capsule and mix the powder with a little water.
- After brushing your teeth, use the solution to rinse your mouth.
- Swish your mouth with the solution and swallow it. Consume a glass of water.
- Repeat this process once daily to get rid of a black hairy tongue.
Eating foods containing live cultures can also help eliminate fungi and bacteria. Include yogurt in your diet, or take probiotic supplements.
8. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide contains powerful antibacterial properties that can effectively purge bacteria in the mouth. It can help in getting rid of a black hairy tongue. Using this solution can also make your teeth whiter. To keep your mouth clean, use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Mix hydrogen peroxide with water in a ratio of 1:2.
- Dip your toothbrush into the solution.
- Scrape your tongue gently.
- Spit the solution out and wash your mouth thoroughly.
- Repeat this treatment once a day for four days.
Read:15 Amazing Benefits and Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide in Your Home
9. Indian Lilac
Indian lilac is also effective in treating black hairy tongues. Also known as neem, this herb contains antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can eliminate bacteria, fungi, and yeast from the mouth. This herb also helps in flushing out toxins from the body. Here’s how to eliminate the black hairy tongue with Indian lilac.
- Add one tablespoon of dried Indian lilac leaves to a cup of water.
- Please bring it to a boil until the water is reduced to half.
- Please wait for it to cool down, and use the solution as a mouthwash.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat this process two times a day until you are satisfied with the outcome.
10. Vegetable Glycerin
One of the best ways to treat black hairy tongues is using vegetable glycerin, especially if the main cause is dry mouth. This treatment can also reduce bad breath.
- Put enough amount of glycerin on the surface of your tongue.
- Brush your tongue lightly using your toothbrush.
- Wash your mouth with warm water.
- Repeat this treatment two times a day until the black color is gone.
FAQs
1. Can a black hairy tongue be painful?
No, a black hairy tongue is typically a painless condition. However, in rare cases, individuals may experience mild discomfort or a tickling sensation due to the elongated papillae.
2. Is black hairy tongue contagious?
No, a black hairy tongue is not contagious. It is a benign condition not caused by an infection or a transmissible agent.
3. Does a black hairy tongue indicate poor oral hygiene?
The black hairy tongue can also occur in individuals with good oral hygiene practices. While poor oral hygiene can contribute to its development, other factors, such as medication use or dry mouth, can also play a role.
4. How long does a black hairy tongue last?
A black hairy tongue is usually a temporary condition. With proper oral hygiene and lifestyle changes, it can resolve within a few weeks. However, in some cases, it may persist for several months.
5. Can a black hairy tongue be prevented?
Yes, a black hairy tongue can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene. Regularly brushing the teeth and cleaning the tongue’s surface can help remove debris and prevent bacteria and dead skin cell buildup.
