Home treatment for a black or coated tongue

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 furlike 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.


Author: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBALast Updated: December 1, 2006
Medical Review: Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist

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