The tongue is normally pinkish, but occasionally it becomes covered with a black deposit, caused by the overgrowth of fungi and bacteria. Most often, this is a temporary, mild symptom, although it is unsightly.

The tongue, which is normally smooth and pink, can sometimes become covered with a more or less filamentous black deposit. We also speak of charged tongue or black hairy tongue (or hairy), or Black hairy tongue. Staining occurs on the top of the tongue, usually in the center.

This anomaly usually does not cause any discomfort or symptoms. In rare cases, a burning sensation may occur on the tongue, even discomfort when swallowing (feeling of suffocation) and an unpleasant metallic taste.

This condition mainly affects adults, although young children can be affected.

The tongue can be the site of various inflammatory, infectious or tumor conditions and lesions. Note that color variations, quite normal, can also be observed from one person to another.

The black deposit is due to an accumulation of bacteria and cell debris on the papillae present on the surface of the tongue. The “hairy” appearance is due to the hypertrophy (ie excessive growth) of the so-called filiform papillae.

The proliferation of bacteria and yeasts (Candida albicans) gives a yellowish or brown, even blackish color, which may gradually darken. It is not a yeast infection, or candidiasis, strictly speaking, it rather gives a whitish color to the tongue.

Several factors can promote this microbial proliferation, among others:

• tobacco consumption;
• taking antibiotics or other drugs (such as psychotropic drugs for example);
• the use of oral antiseptics;
• chemotherapy or orofacial radiotherapy.

Although impressive and unsightly, black villous tongue is a benign condition, which most of the time resolves spontaneously.

In the event of abnormal deposition or unusual coloring of the tongue, it is advisable to consult a general practitioner or a dermatologist. He may, if necessary, request additional examinations (blood tests, for example) to determine the cause of the deposits.

However, black villous tongue usually goes away quickly, either spontaneously or possibly with the application of a tretinoin solution or scratching. It is indeed possible to scratch (cured) the tongue to solve the problem in a medical environment, under local anesthesia, although there is a risk of recurrence.

In all cases, you must adopt good oral hygiene, with daily brushing of the top of the tongue.