How to treat a black hairy tongue?

Q. Is there any treatment for a black hairy tongue?

Answered by
Dr. Nupur Prashant Shah
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Mar 04, 2017 and last reviewed on: Sep 06, 2023

Hi doctor,

A few weeks ago I noticed that my tongue had patchy green areas. However, it has now turned into more of a yellow color, more so in the back than the front. Brushing the tongue seems to remove the yellow, but then it comes back. I am very scared of the black hairy tongue, and I read that yellow precedes before the black and hairy part. I have attached a photo of my tongue. What can I do to remove and prevent this? Can the black hairy tongue be treated?

#

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the attached photo (attachment removed to protect patient identity), and I understand your concern. As your tongue has turned yellow and black from green in the front part, it is a typical feature of a hairy tongue. Clinically it looks like a hairy tongue, but get it confirmed through laboratory tests also. Consult an oral pathologist as early as possible for the confirmation, follow his or her guidance for the treatment. Meanwhile, please try maintaining tongue hygiene by brushing it twice daily for two minutes with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper by making gentle movements over the affected area. Stop all habits like smoking, tobacco, etc., if any. Gargle after every meal.


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