Hairy tongue: Is usually harmless and will go

Hairy tongue is usually harmless and will go away with proper care. Find out what it is, how to get rid of it, and when you may need a healthcare provider. A tongue that looks hairy can have various causes, such as taking certain medications and not brushing your teeth well enough. Treatment can depend on the cause. Hairy tongue is the common... Black hairy tongue (BHT) is a relatively common, harmless condition that affects up to 13% of people. It presents as a dark, “ hairy ” coating on the tongue 's surface, which, although alarming, is both painless and temporary. BHT can occur at any age but is more frequently seen in older adults, particularly men. The condition arises when the filiform papillae, tiny bumps on the tongue , fail to shed properly. These papillae grow longer, trapping food particles, bacteria, and fungi, which ... Hairy tongue causes A number of the following conditions can be the cause of hairy tongue , including: Poor oral hygiene This can lead to a buildup of bacteria or fungi, which causes a hairy tongue . Certain substances Excessive use of tobacco, alco"hol, coffee or tea can trigger the condition of the hairy tongue . Dehydration or dry mouth Dehydration or dry mouth (xerostomia) can reduce moisture in the mouth. This can make a person more susceptible to hairy tongue . Certain medications ...