Black Spots On The Tongue, What Do They Consist Of?

Although it may seem strange, black spots on the tongue are somewhat more common than we think. These spots worry everyone who suffers from them, since most people tend to think directly about cancer. However, the causes can be multiple.

Their location and appearance vary. Blackheads on the tongue may appear on the back and look fuzzy. They can also do it in other areas, in multiple or solitary ways. Most of the time they are temporary and their duration varies with the cause.

In this article we explain what are the main causes of black spots on the tongue and their consequences.

What are the causes of black spots on the tongue?

The tongue, under normal conditions, is red in color and covered with small bumps called papillae. Sometimes the papillae can become discolored and swollen and take on this blackhead appearance.

Black spots on the tongue are often due to problems with oral hygiene. However, they can also be a symptom of oral cancer, problems with some medications or tobacco. The main causes are the following that we are going to comment on.

Black hairy tongue

Black hairy tongue is a mild and temporary oral disease. The tongue takes on a dark, hairy appearance. It occurs because dead skin cells cannot be removed normally. Therefore, they accumulate and cause the papillae to increase in size.

The papillae trap more bacteria, food debris, tobacco substances, and so on. These substances make the tongue “stain”. There are many processes that are related to this pathology:

• Poor oral hygiene.
• Drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco.
• Drinking too much coffee or black tea.
• Taking antibiotics or using very irritating mouthwashes.

Although this pathology of this aspect of black dots on the tongue may seem alarming, it does not usually cause health problems or pain. It usually subsides by eliminating these factors and applying correct oral hygiene.

Hyperpigmentation of the tongue

Tongue hyperpigmentation is a benign disorder that also causes blackheads on the tongue. It is relatively common in blacks and Asians. It usually appears between the ages of 20 and 30, although it can also be seen in children. It usually affects the lateral surfaces and the tip of the tongue.

The cause is not known, although scientists are investigating the possibility of a genetic factor. Numerous studies try to demonstrate the type of inheritance of this pathology.

Yeast infection

Yeast infections are common in people who have poor oral hygiene. In fact, they can also appear from taking certain antibiotics. This is because antibiotics alter the entire bacterial composition of the tongue, including the one that acts protectively.

Injuries and wounds

Although we do not stop to think about it, the tongue can also suffer bruises. Any bump or bite that does not tear the tissue can cause small bruises to form on the tongue. They appear in the form of small black dots on the tongue.

Black spots on the tongue from medications

As we mentioned before, antibiotics can weaken the bacterial flora on the tongue. Therefore, it is easier for you to have a fungal infection.

But on the other hand, there are other medications that can cause blackheads on the tongue. The mechanism of this side effect is complex. However, it is a transitory situation. When you stop taking the medicine, the tongue will surely return to normal.

The important thing about black spots on the tongue

Black spots on the tongue can appear for different reasons. However, most of the cases are related to bad habits. Both oral hygiene and tobacco have a significant influence.

Therefore, it is very important to maintain proper hygiene. It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Similarly, you should floss and mouthwash daily.

On the other hand, avoid toxic habits, especially smoking. Tobacco has been linked to both blackheads on the tongue and oral cancer.

If you notice changes in the tongue or in any part of the mouth, do not hesitate to go to the doctor. He will carry out the pertinent tests for the proper diagnosis and to rule out that it is a carcinogenic process.