Main Content
Top of the page
Brightly coloured changes in the colour of your tongue may be caused by eating or drinking something that may have stained your tongue, such as soft drinks or candy. The bright colours can be alarming. Stains caused by soft drinks or candy will brush off or wear off.
A buildup of food debris and bacteria on the tongue may make the tongue look thick or furry ("hairy tongue"). A person with a hairy tongue often has severe bad breath (halitosis). Soreness is not usually present. Often the problems will go away if the surface of the tongue is brushed with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your tongue problem is from some local irritation, such as tobacco use, removing the source of the irritation may clear up the tongue problem. Home treatment may be all that is needed.
Other common causes of tongue problems include:
Common tongue problems include:
Rare, but serious, causes of tongue problems can include:
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Healthwise StaffClinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.