THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SMOKING AND ORAL HAIRY TONGUE LESIONS

Abstract

Background: Oral hairy tongue is a benign condition characterized by elongation and hyperkeratinization of the filiform papillae on the dorsum of the tongue, resulting in a hairy appearance. The discoloration may be brown or black due to the accumulation of keratin, pigments, and microorganisms. Poor oral hygiene and smoking are the main predisposing factors, while the use of antihypertensive medications may also contribute. Case report: A 63-year-old man presented with blackish discoloration of the tongue and discomfort while eating, which had persisted for three months. He reported poor oral hygiene, smoking two packs of cigarettes daily for the past 50 years, and taking amlodipine for hypertension. Intraoral examination revealed a solitary, soft, blackish-brown plaque on the dorsum of the tongue, measuring approximately 3 × 4 cm, with diffuse borders and asymptomatic. Case Management: The treatment plan included providing information and education to the patient that the oral condition was related to the patient's habits and manifestations of systemic disease. The patient was also given a tongue scraper and instructed to use it twice daily after tooth brushing. In addition, nystatin oral drops and benzydamine hydrochloride mouthwash were prescribed. Conclusion: Oral hairy tongue is a multifactorial condition caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, and medications inducing xerostomia. The management focuses on eliminating predisposing factors, improving oral hygiene, mechanically cleaning the tongue, and educating the patient to prevent recurrence.