A dentist has sounded the alarm on five red flags for a “concerning” oral condition, offering advice on home treatments to avoid a visit to the clinic. A black hairy tongue, although startling in appearance, is usually a benign and treatable problem that can cause unnecessary worry to sufferers.
Dr. Andrej Bozic, Dentum’s oral surgeon, has shed some light on the condition, saying, “A black hairy tongue can be a concern, but it’s important to understand the signs, causes and treatments. With the right information, this condition can be effectively managed.”
What exactly is a black hairy tongue?
The odd-sounding black hairy tongue (BHT) is identified by an unusual coating on the surface of the tongue that gives it a dark, hairy appearance.
Dr. Bozic explains the phenomenon: “This happens when the small protrusions on the tongue, called papillae, become stretched and discolored from food, bacteria, or other substances,” adding that despite its scary appearance, the condition is typically harmless and short-lived. , reports Gloucestershire Live.
BHT is not uncommon, affecting up to 13% of people at some point. Risk factors have increased, such as age, smoking and dental hygiene practices.
Recognizes black hairy tongue
Dr. Andrej Bozic highlights the primary indicators of black hairy tongue:
The hallmark symptom is a noticeable change in the color of the tongue, which can vary from brown or yellow to black and mainly affects the middle area of the tongue.
Known as black hairy tongue, the condition is characterized by a hairy or hairy texture where the surface of the tongue may feel rough due to the papillae, which can grow up to 15 times their normal length. This can lead to bad breath (halitosis) as bacteria and food particles build up, and some individuals may experience an altered sense of taste, including a metallic taste.
In addition, elongated pimples can trigger a gagging sensation while eating or swallowing.
Dr. Bozic explains that lifestyle factors are often to blame for a black hairy tongue, with poor oral hygiene being the primary culprit. Without regular brushing, dead skin cells are not removed from the papules, which causes discoloration.
Tobacco use plays a major role in the disease because “the tar and nicotine in tobacco stain the papules,” according to Dr. Bozic. Diet also plays a role in the development of this condition, especially when it lacks fiber-rich foods that help clean the tongue, while dark drinks and certain medications can make the problem worse.
To combat a black hairy tongue, Dr. Bozic recommends starting with enhanced oral hygiene practices. “Brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush or tongue scraper is crucial,” he advises those who want to treat the condition.
Quitting smoking is a big step in improving your health and reducing your risk, experts say. Simple changes to your daily routine, such as increasing fiber, drinking plenty of water, and using antibacterial mouthwash can also help. It is also important to visit your dentist regularly so they can check for any problems.
Dr. Bozic added, “In rare cases, BHT can indicate an underlying medical condition, so seeking professional help is important,” advising anyone experiencing persistent BHT, pain, halitosis or difficulty swallowing to seek help.