This sounds (and looks) scary, but hairy tongue is really harmless.
Hairy tongue is a build-up of bacteria or yeast on the tongue that collects on overgrown taste buds. These overgrown taste buds can then be stained black occasionally.
You are at a higher risk to develop hairy tongue if you:
- have poor oral hygiene
- are dehydrated
- are using antibiotics
- you smoke tobacco
- you use a Peroxide based mouthwash
What can be done if this happens to you?
Improve your home care. When you brush your teeth twice a day, also lightly brush your tongue or use a tongue scrapper.
