Brown Spots on the Tongue: Causes and When to See a Doctor

Allergies are not a recognized cause of brown spots on the tongue. Common causes include:

• Medications (e.g., bismuth, antibiotics)
• Trauma or biting
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Coffee, tea, or colored foods
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Hyperpigmentation (melanotic macules)

When to Seek Evaluation

If spots persist beyond two weeks, change in size/color, are accompanied by pain, ulceration, or swallowing difficulty, see a dentist or physician for examination and possible biopsy.