Discovering a black spot on your tongue can be alarming, as the tongue is typically pink and evenly colored. While not always a cause for concern, understanding its potential causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical advice is essential.
This article outlines common causes of black spots on the tongue, symptoms to monitor, and recommended next steps.
Common Causes of Black Spots on the Tongue
- Hyperpigmentation
- Excess melanin production, often genetic or linked to benign conditions like oral melanotic macules, can lead to dark spots.
- Tongue Trauma
- Injuries like biting your tongue, burns from hot food, or contact with sharp objects may cause bruises that appear as dark spots.
- Black Hairy Tongue (Lingua Villosa Nigra)
- A harmless condition where bacteria, food, or tobacco accumulate on elongated papillae, giving the tongue a dark, hairy appearance. Good oral hygiene typically resolves this issue.
- Oral Melanoacanthoma
- A rare, non-cancerous lesion that grows rapidly but usually resolves after diagnosis. It’s more common in individuals of African descent.
- Medications and Treatments
- Certain medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy, may trigger pigmentation changes, resulting in dark spots.
- Tobacco Use
- Smoking or chewing tobacco can stain the tongue, causing black spots or discoloration.
- Fungal Infections
- In rare cases, fungal conditions like Candida may create dark patches, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Oral Cancer
- Persistent dark spots with irregular shapes, rapid growth, or symptoms like pain could indicate oral cancer, though this is rare.