Treating a Black or Coated Tongue

Topic Overview

Home treatment may be all that is needed for a black or coated tongue.

Brush your tongue daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste or a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 2 parts water.
Scrape the tongue with an upside-down teaspoon to remove the "furry" coating on the tongue.
Do not use tobacco products.

Bismuth products, such as Pepto-Bismol, can turn your tongue black. The black appearance will go away after you stop taking the medicine.

Mouth Problems, Non-Injury

Credits

Current as of:
June 30, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
David Messenger MD