Black, hairy tongue

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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

Black, hairy tongue typically doesn't require medical treatment. Though unattractive, it's a temporary, harmless condition.

Practicing good oral hygiene and eliminating factors that potentially contribute to the condition — such as tobacco use or medications that contain bismuth — help resolve black, hairy tongue. Talk to your doctor or dentist before discontinuing a prescribed medication.

Lifestyle and home remedies Preparing for your appointment
References
  1. Goldstein B, et al. Oral lesions. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
  2. Images in clinical medicine: Black hairy tongue. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2006;354:67.
  3. Cleaning your teeth & gums. American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/2624.aspx. Accessed Jan. 28, 2011.
DS01134 April 22, 2011

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