A dentist has sounded the alarm on the five red flags of a "concerning" oral condition, offering advice on home treatments to avoid a clinic visit. Black hairy tongue, while startling in appearance, is usually a benign and treatable issue that can cause undue worry for sufferers.

Oral surgeon Dr Andrej Bozic from Dentum has shed light on the condition, saying: "Black hairy tongue can be concerning, but it's important to understand the signs, causes, and treatments. With the right information, this condition can be managed effectively."

What exactly is black hairy tongue?

The peculiar-sounding black hairy tongue (BHT) is identified by an unusual coating on the tongue's surface that results in a dark, hair-like look.

Dr Bozic clarifies the phenomenon: "This happens when the tiny projections on the tongue, called papillae, become elongated and stained by food, bacteria, or other substances," adding that despite its daunting appearance, the condition is typically harmless and short-lived, reports Gloucestershire Live.

BHT is not uncommon, impacting up to 13% of individuals at some stage, with increased risk factors including age, smoking, and subpar dental hygiene practices.

Recognising black hairy tongue

Dr Andrej Bozic highlights the primary indicators of black hairy tongue:

The hallmark symptom is a noticeable change in tongue colour, which may vary from brown or yellow to black, predominantly affecting the central area of the tongue.

The condition known as black hairy tongue is characterised by a furry or hairy texture, where the tongue's surface may feel rough due to papillae that can grow up to 15 times their normal length. This can lead to bad breath (halitosis) as bacteria and food particles build up, and some individuals may experience an altered sense of taste, including a metallic flavour.

Additionally, the elongated papillae might trigger a gagging sensation during eating or swallowing.

Dr Bozic explains that lifestyle factors are often to blame for black hairy tongue, with poor oral hygiene being a primary culprit. Without regular brushing, dead skin cells aren't removed from the papillae, causing discolouration.

Tobacco use significantly contributes to the condition, as "The tar and nicotine in tobacco stain the papillae," according to Dr Bozic. Diet also influences the development of this condition, especially when lacking in fibrous foods that help clean the tongue, while dark-coloured beverages and certain medications can exacerbate the issue.

To combat black hairy tongue, Dr Bozic recommends starting with enhanced oral hygiene practices. "Brushing your teeth and tongue twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush or using a tongue scraper is crucial," he advises for those looking to treat the condition.

Giving up smoking is a major step towards improving your health and reducing the risk, experts say. Simple changes to your daily routine, such as eating more fibre, drinking plenty of water and using antibacterial mouthwash, can also help. It is also vital to visit your dentist regularly so they can check for any problems.

Dr Bozic added: "In rare cases, BHT could indicate an underlying medical condition, so seeking professional advice is important," advising anyone who experiences persistent BHT, pain, halitosis or swallowing difficulties to seek help.