BLACK HAIRY TONGUE

   Hairy tongue is characterized by marked accumulation of keratin on the filliform papillae  of the dorsal tongue resulting in a hair like appearance.Many affected people are heavy smokers.

Other possible associated factors are

• antibiotic therapy
• poor oral hygiene
• general debilitation
• radiation therapy
• use of oxidizing mouthwashes
• overgrowth of fungal or bacterial organisms

The condition is usually asymptomatic.the elongated papillae are usually brown, yellow or black


TREATMENT :The condition is benign . Any predisposing factors should be eliminated.oral hygiene  maintenance has to be encouraged .Periodic scraping or brushing with a toothbrush or tongue scraper is recommended.