Waking Up with a Black Tongue – What Causes It?

This article is a part of our Q&A series in which we give detailed answers to our readers' questions. Have a question? Don't hesitate and send it to us to get a detailed answer!

Waking up with a black tongue can be alarming. Understanding what causes this phenomenon and how to address it is crucial. In this guide, we will explore the possible causes of waking up with a black tongue, preventative measures, and treatment options.

The Black Tongue Phenomenon

Having a black tongue, medically known as black hairy tongue or lingua villosa, refers to a condition where the tongue appears black and sometimes hairy. It is usually harmless but can be unsightly and sometimes cause bad breath or an altered sense of taste.

Causes of a Black Tongue

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Not cleaning your tongue properly can lead to a buildup of bacteria and dead cells, causing discoloration.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can stain the tongue and contribute to a black appearance.
• Excessive Coffee or Tea Consumption: These beverages can stain the tongue over time.
• Use of Certain Medications: Some medications, especially those that cause dry mouth, can lead to the growth of bacteria on the tongue.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can dry out the mouth and contribute to bacteria buildup.
• Use of Mouthwashes with Oxidizing Agents: Some mouthwashes contain ingredients like peroxide that can cause discoloration of the tongue.
• Overuse of Antibiotics: This can alter the normal flora of the mouth, leading to an imbalance and growth of pigment-producing bacteria.
• A Diet Low in Fiber: Not consuming enough roughage can decrease the natural cleaning of the tongue that occurs during chewing.

Prevention and Treatment

• Good Oral Hygiene: Practicing good oral hygiene is key to preventing and treating a black tongue. Brush your teeth twice daily, and don’t forget to clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent your mouth from drying out, which can contribute to bacteria buildup on the tongue.
• Limit or Avoid Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Both tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to a black tongue. Reducing or eliminating these substances can be beneficial.
• Choose Mouthwash Carefully: If you use mouthwash, opt for one that doesn’t contain peroxide or other oxidizing agents.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Include plenty of fiber in your diet to naturally help clean the tongue while chewing.
• Consult a Physician: In some cases, a black tongue may be caused by underlying medical conditions or medications. If you have tried improving your oral hygiene and your tongue remains black, consult a physician or dentist.

When to See a Doctor

If you have tried the above measures and still wake up with a black tongue, or if you experience other symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, or signs of infection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Bottom Line

Waking up with a black tongue can be alarming but is usually a harmless condition. Maintaining good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes are often effective in treating this condition. However, if the black tongue persists despite taking preventive measures, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.

This Q&A series article is complete and was published on August 5, 2023, and last updated on August 5, 2023.