"Hairy" tongue is a misnomer. Small protuberances on the tongue become thick and appear black as a result of poor oral hygiene. This image displays back, brown, and gray papillae typical of hairy tongue. This image displays hairy tongue, where the taste buds are longer than normal, giving a dark, hairy look to the back of the tongue.
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Hairy Tongue:
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Picture of Hairy Tongue: "Hairy" tongue is a misnomer. Small protuberances on the tongue become thick and appear black as a result of poor oral hygiene. Divider line
"Hairy" tongue is a misnomer. Small protuberances on the tongue become thick and appear black as a result of poor oral hygiene.
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Signs and Symptoms
Hairy tongue most commonly affects the front two thirds of the tongue surface (not underneath the tongue). The tongue may be yellow, orange, green, brown, or black, with a coated, rough, or "hairy" look. You may notice a stale taste or smell in the mouth and a more sensitive gag reflex, but it is painless.
Last Modified: 29 Feb 2008

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