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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffIf, despite brushing your teeth and tongue twice daily black, hairy tongue persists, make an appointment with your doctor or dentist. Here's information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor or dentist.
What you can do
Consider preparing a list of questions to ask your doctor or dentist. Some questions you may want to discuss include:
- What is likely causing my symptoms?
- What is the best course of action?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
- Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own?
- What kind of follow-up, if any, should I expect?
Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment at any time if you don't understand something.
What to expect from your doctor or dentist
Your doctor or dentist may ask you questions about your symptoms and dental care practices. He or she may ask:
- When did you first notice the symptoms?
- Is the condition bothersome?
- Are your symptoms occasional or continuous?
- How often do you brush your teeth or clean your dentures?
- How often do you floss?
- What kind of mouthwash do you use?
- How much coffee or tea do you drink?
- Do you use tobacco products?
- What medications do you take?
- Do you breathe through your mouth?
- Mirowski GW, et al. Biology and pathology of the oral cavity. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2979081. Accessed Jan. 29, 2009.
- Gonsalves WC, et al. Common oral lesions: Part I. Superficial mucosal lesions. American Family Physician. 2007;75:501.
- Cleaning your teeth and gums (oral hygiene): Overview. American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/cleaning.asp. Accessed Feb. 9, 2009.
- Cleaning your teeth and gums (oral hygiene): Frequently asked questions (FAQ). American Dental Association. http://www.ada.org/public/topics/cleaning_faq.asp. Accessed Feb. 9, 2009.
- Carr AB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 24, 2009.
