Do I Have Black Hairy Tongue Syndrome?

Do you have a black discoloration of the tongue (although the color may be brown, tan, green, yellow or white)?

Do you have a discoloration at the back of your tongue, while the tip and sides remain normally colored?

Do you have a hairy or furry appearance of the tongue?

Do you have an altered taste (the food does not taste as usual)?

Do you have a metallic taste in your mouth?

Do you have a bad breath (halitosis)?

Do you have a burning sensation in your mouth?

Do you have gagging or tickling sensation in your mouth (if the overgrowth of the papillae is excessive)?

Are you a smoker or do you drink a large amount of coffee or black tea every day?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a black hairy tongue syndrome. Black hairy tongue syndrome is an oral condition in which your tongue has a characteristic dark and hairy appearance. It is not a serious condition and it is usually a temporary problem. “Hairy” tongue is actually the result of an enlargement of the filiform papillae – small nipple-shaped protuberances located on the tongue surface that prevent shedding of surface cells.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a black hairy tongue syndrome. Black hairy tongue (BHT) syndrome is an acquired condition in which small conical bumps on the surface of your tongue (papillae) enlarge and stain from various substances, including food, tobacco, bacteria, and yeast. The tongue discoloration usually affects the back surface of your tongue, while the tip and sides of your tongue are colored normally. “Hairy” tongue often causes no symptoms and the major problem is its unpleasant appearance. A diagnosis is based on your medical history and the appearance of your tongue. Sometimes, your doctor may order a tong swab.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a black hairy tongue syndrome. Black hairy tongue (BHT) syndrome is a benign condition with a specific appearance of your tongue - it becomes dark and looks furry. Despite the name of this condition, the top of your tongue can also be brown, green, white or other colors. BHT affects about 13 percent of Americans. It is more common in men than in women. In most cases, BHT can be eliminated with good oral hygiene that involves the use of a toothbrush or tongue scraper. Rarely, BHT must be treated with medical or surgical treatments.