What causes black hairy tongue?

What causes black hairy tongue?

The two most common causes of black hairy tongue include poor oral hygiene and a diet of soft foods. This is because the shedding process requires stimulation and abrasion to the top of your tongue. Common black hairy tongue causes include:

• Drinking lots of coffee and tea.
• Tobacco use.
• Heavy alcohol use.
• Certain medications.
• Radiation therapy.
• Dry mouth.
• Some types of mouthwash.