Black hairy tongue

Although recognized for its distinctive black color, its hue can range from blackish-brown to yellow-green to unpigmented[ 7 , 12 ]. Am I Having a Heart Attack? These papillae, which are longer than normal, can easily trap and be stained by bacteria, yeast, tobacco, food or other substances. General preventative strategies should be employed and the patient should be educated of this condition as a potential side effect of antibiotic and antipsychotic medications. This makes the tongue look hairy. Other co-existing clinical conditions associated with BHT xerostomia, HIV, cancer, and trigeminal neuralgia should be sought for and managed appropriately as well to reduce the risk of BHT reappearance. Patients should be reassured about the benign nature of the condition to address anxiety and promote recognition and treatment.