What Are The Black Spots On The Tongue?

It may seem strange, but black spots on the tongue are a little more common than you might think. Understandably, it worries people that they often have. However, the causes are many and diverse.

First, their location and appearance vary. These spots can also appear on the back and even look hairy. They can also appear in other areas, in groups or individually. They are usually temporary, so to begin with , their duration depends on why they are there.

So, in today’s article, we’ll explain to you what the main causes of black spots on the tongue are, along with their possible consequences.

What causes the black spots on the tongue?

Under normal circumstances, the tongue is red and covered with small bumps called papillae. However, there are some cases where the papillae lose color, making them look like black spots.

Black spots on the tongue are usually due to poor oral hygiene. However, they can also be a symptom of oral cancer, problems with medication and smoking.

hairy black tongue

In this case, the tongue darkens and has a hairy appearance. It occurs because dead skin cells do not exfoliate as they should. Thus, they accumulate and lead to swelling of the papillae.

This is because the papillae are responsible for trapping bacteria, food debris, tobacco spores, and so on. These substances make the tongue dirty. This is a mild and temporary oral condition. Many processes can cause this such as:

• The use of antibiotics and irritating mouthwashes.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Drinking too much coffee or black tea.
• Alcohol consumption and smoking.

Having black spots on the tongue usually causes anxiety. However, there is no reason for it, as it does not necessarily lead to further health problems and is painless. So it usually involves eliminating the above factors and following good oral hygiene.

Tongue hyperpigmentation

This is a benign condition that also leads to black spots on the tongue. It is relatively common in African and Asian people. It is more common in people between the ages of 20 and 30, although it also manifests itself in some children. Generally it affects the lateral surfaces of the tongue and tip.

The cause of this condition is still unknown, although scientists are investigating the possibility of a genetic factor. A number of studies continue to attempt to demonstrate the type of inheritance of this pathology.

Fungal infection

Yeast infections are common in people with poor oral hygiene. However, the black spots can also occur after taking certain antibiotics. This is because antibiotics change the bacteria of the tongue, including the good kind.

Damage and wounds

Although we rarely think about it, the tongue can also be bruised. Any blow or bite that doesn’t tear the tissue can form a small bruise on the tongue. It often looks like small black spots on the tongue.

Black spots on the tongue due to medication

As we mentioned earlier, antibiotics can weaken the tongue’s microbiota. So it is easier to contract a fungal infection.

However, some medications can also cause black spots on the tongue. The mechanism of this side effect is complex. However, it is only a passing situation. Your tongue will return to normal once you stop taking the medication.

The most important thing about black spots on the tongue

Black spots on the tongue can appear for a variety of reasons. However, most cases are due to bad habits such as improper oral hygiene and smoking. So it is very important to maintain good hygiene.

Most dentists also recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Similarly, you should floss and gargle daily. Also try to quit toxic habits like smoking. Tobacco not only causes black spots on the tongue, it can also lead to oral cancer.

See your doctor if you notice any changes in the color of your tongue or part of your mouth. They will perform the necessary relevant tests to diagnose you and rule out cancer-causing processes.