If your child has ablack tongue, you might be worried that something is really wrong.
While it can be frightening, it’s usually harmless and easy to explain.
Still, you should know certain warning signs to look for.
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Non-medical causes include:
Among medical causes, they can either be related to illnesses or medications.
It’s considered a birthmark and is called pigmented nevus.
This drug is used to treat:
Pepto-Bismol contains an ingredient calledbismuth subsalicylate.
When bismuth mixes with sulfur (a natural component of saliva) it forms bismuth sulfide.
This substance can make your tongue look black.
This discoloration typically goes away on its own a few days after you stop taking the medication.
Reye’s syndrome is a seriousand potentially fatalillness.
It causes:
Symptoms include:
This illness usually comes on soon after a viral illness.
Other Salicylate-Containing Drugs
These medications also can cause Reye’s syndrome.
Ask your healthcare provider before giving them to a child.
Alternate medications are used for treating digestive problems andH.
With its distinctive pink color and minty flavor, some children decide to drink Pepto-Bismol.
Also, watch fordark stool(poop).
Bismuth causes that when it mixes with sulfur in the intestines.
Be sure to keep Pepto-Bismol and all other medicines where children can’t get to them.
These causes are rare in children.
Treatment for a Black Tongue
A black tongue from food usually clears up quickly on its own.
If it’s sparked by medication, it should go away soon after the child stops taking it.
If not, their dentist can gentlyscrape the tongueto get rid of the color.
This may involve prescription antifungals or antibiotics.
Summary
A black tongue is usually harmless.
Some infections can also cause a black tongue.
So can Pepto-Bismol or other medications containing salicylates.
Regular Pepto shouldn’t be taken by kids under 12.
The children’s formulation of Pepto-Bismol is safe for children over 2.
A black tongue brought on by food/drink should go away quickly.
If not, their dentist can gently scrape it away.
A black tongue resulting from an infection may require antibiotics or antifungal medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
The Pepto-Bismol that’s made for adults can turn your tongue black.
Sometimes, a gentle scraping at the dentist’s office can remove the color.
That depends on what is causing it.
A black tongue due to infection should get better quickly once your child gets on the right treatment.
It’s uncommon due to the modern diet’s niacin content.
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