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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Black Colored Tongue?

Hi, may I answer your health queries right now ? Please type your query here...i work in a group home..one of the ladies i care for has black tongue..specialists keep telling us this does not effect tastebuds...she gags and vomits almost every time we feed her..she is unable to tell us whats wrong...she has lost 30lbs in the last 4months.
Thu, 3 Dec 2015
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi..
Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..

I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns..

As per your complain black discoloration of tongue is commonly due to a condition known as Black Hairy Tongue and although the appearance is unsightly but is commonly harmless..
It can be due to conditions like overgrowth of tongue papillae that contains taste buds and do not shed normally..
There can also be overgrowth of bacteria and fungus over tongue, taking medication containing Pepto Bismol, excess intake of tea and coffee, long term intake of soft diet can be a cause..
You should consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated..
In case of black hairy tongue cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper, gargling with 1:1 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water and using a soft toothbrush that should be dippes on this solution and cleaning the tongue gently can help in gradually cleaning the tongue..
Taking raw fruits and vegetables can help in cleaning the tongue with Frictional action..
Gargle with any mouthwash will help..

Hope this information helps..

Thanks and regards.
Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.
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What Causes Black Colored Tongue?

Hi.. Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns.. As per your complain black discoloration of tongue is commonly due to a condition known as Black Hairy Tongue and although the appearance is unsightly but is commonly harmless.. It can be due to conditions like overgrowth of tongue papillae that contains taste buds and do not shed normally.. There can also be overgrowth of bacteria and fungus over tongue, taking medication containing Pepto Bismol, excess intake of tea and coffee, long term intake of soft diet can be a cause.. You should consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated.. In case of black hairy tongue cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper, gargling with 1:1 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water and using a soft toothbrush that should be dippes on this solution and cleaning the tongue gently can help in gradually cleaning the tongue.. Taking raw fruits and vegetables can help in cleaning the tongue with Frictional action.. Gargle with any mouthwash will help.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.