Black Spots On The Tongue: What Are They Due To?
Strange as it may sound, black spots on the tongue are very common. They worry anyone who suffers from them, as most people tend to immediately think of cancer. However, the causes can be many.
The specific area in which they appear and their appearance can vary. Black spots on the tongue, in fact, can appear on the back of the tongue and can also have a hairy appearance. They can also appear in other places, in clusters or singly. Most of the time they are temporary and their duration varies depending on the cause.
In this article we will explain what are the main causes for which black spots appear on the tongue and what are the consequences.
What are the causes of black spots on the tongue?
The tongue, under normal conditions, is red in color and is covered with small growths called taste buds. In some cases, the papillae may lose their natural color and swell, as well as take on the appearance of blackheads.
This is often due to oral hygiene problems. However, it can also be a symptom of mouth cancer, or a side effect of a drug or tobacco. The main causes are the following:
Hairy black tongue
Black hairy tongue is a mild and transient disease of the oral cavity. The tongue takes on a dark, hairy appearance. This happens because dead skin cells cannot be eliminated normally. Because of this they accumulate and cause an increase in the volume of the taste buds.
The papillae trap more bacteria, food residues, substances contained in tobacco, and so on. These substances cause the tongue to “get stained”. At the origin of this pathology we find several factors:
- Bad oral hygiene.
- Drinking alcohol and smoking.
- Drinking excess coffee or black tea.
- Taking antibiotics or using particularly irritating mouthwashes.
Although this condition, which is responsible for the presence of black spots on the tongue, can take on an alarming appearance, it usually does not cause more serious health problems or pain. It generally wears out following the elimination of these factors and the application of proper oral hygiene.
Hyperpigmentation of the tongue
This is a benign condition that causes black spots to appear on the tongue. It is relatively common in people of African and Asian descent. It usually appears between the ages of 20 and 30, although it can also occur in children. It also tends to affect the lateral surfaces and the tip of the tongue.
The cause is unknown, although scientists are studying the possibility that a genetic predisposition exists. Several studies have tried to demonstrate the type of genetic predisposition at the origin of this pathology.
Fungal infection
Fungal infections are common in people who have poor oral hygiene. However, they can also appear following the intake of certain antibiotics. This is because antibiotics alter the bacterial composition of the tongue, including that which acts as a defensive barrier.
Injuries and wounds
It may seem strange, but the tongue can also have bruises. A bump or bite that doesn’t injure the tissue can cause small bruises on the tongue. These manifest themselves in the form of small black spots on its surface.
Black spots on the tongue due to some medicines
As we said earlier, antibiotics can debilitate the bacterial flora of the tongue. For this reason, a fungal infection is more likely to develop.
On the other hand, however, there are other drugs that can cause spots on the tongue. The mechanism of this side effect is complex. However, this is a temporary situation: if you stop taking the medicine in question, your tongue will certainly return to its normal appearance.
Because the presence of black spots on the tongue should not be underestimated
Black spots on the tongue can appear for several reasons. However, in most cases they are due to some bad habits. Both oral hygiene and tobacco have a notable influence.
For this reason, it is very important to maintain proper oral hygiene. It is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day. Also, floss and mouthwash should be used every day.
Try to avoid toxic habits, especially that of smoking. Tobacco is associated with both black spots on the tongue and mouth cancer.
If you notice any changes in the appearance of the tongue or anywhere in the mouth, do not hesitate to see your doctor. He will perform the most suitable tests to elaborate the diagnosis and rule out the presence of a cancerous process.
