HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Brown Film On Tongue And Dry Mouth And Lips

default
Posted on Wed, 5 Jun 2019
Question: brown film on tongue and dry mouth and lips
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ornela Ademovi (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Most probably a fungal infection, please see the detailed answer below

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I can understand your concern. The brown layer on the tongue is most probably due to overgrowth of bacteria or fungus, mostly due to antibiotic use. Antibiotics kill some bacteria while others overgrow. This may also include fungi.
Another cause for bacterial/fungal overgrowth can be poor denture hygiene.

You may use half strength hydrogen peroxide as mouthwash and sprinkle nystatin on the dentures 2-3 times per day. You may also use an antifungal mouthwash.

If this does not give any results, you may need to take stronger antifungals, such as Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole or Nystatin either as tablets or an ointment on the tongue.

Meanwhile, I'd recommend you also brush your tongue when brushing your teeth followed by antiseptic mouthwash rinse.

I hope this helps.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ornela Ademovi

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 725 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Brown Film On Tongue And Dry Mouth And Lips

Brief Answer: Most probably a fungal infection, please see the detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hello, I can understand your concern. The brown layer on the tongue is most probably due to overgrowth of bacteria or fungus, mostly due to antibiotic use. Antibiotics kill some bacteria while others overgrow. This may also include fungi. Another cause for bacterial/fungal overgrowth can be poor denture hygiene. You may use half strength hydrogen peroxide as mouthwash and sprinkle nystatin on the dentures 2-3 times per day. You may also use an antifungal mouthwash. If this does not give any results, you may need to take stronger antifungals, such as Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole or Nystatin either as tablets or an ointment on the tongue. Meanwhile, I'd recommend you also brush your tongue when brushing your teeth followed by antiseptic mouthwash rinse. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care