The tongue is arguably the most neglected part of the mouth when it comes to oral hygiene. However, it's easy to see why. Many of our Montclair and Irvine patients tell us that their dentist has instructed them since they were children to brush their teeth at least twice a day, but rarely were they reminded to brush their tongue. To help inform everyone about this important dental hygiene practice, in this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of tongue cleaning every day and the most effective ways to do it.
Reasons to Clean Your Tongue
Several studies support these crucial benefits of cleaning the tongue:
Prevents bad breath. A 2004 clinical study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that cleaning the tongue reduced the volatile sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath. Using a tongue scraper eliminated 75 percent of the sulfur compounds while a toothbrush removed 45 percent of them.
Reduces harmful bacteria on the tongue. A 2014 study in BMC Oral Health concluded that cleaning the tongue regularly helped reduce harmful bacteria that may lead to oral problems, including halitosis.
A cleaner and fresher mouth. The American Dental Association (ADA) does not equate tongue cleaning with the reduction of bad breath, but the reputable organization agrees that cleaning your tongue can achieve a fresher-feeling mouth.
Reduces plaque. A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry revealed that regular tongue cleaning, using either a scraper or toothbrush, may reduce plaque levels in children.
May improve your sense of taste. Tongue cleaning may improve or heighten your ability to taste citric acid and sucrose (sour and sweet foods), according to a 2013 study.
Using a Scraper Is the Best Way to Clean Your Tongue
Though both tongue scrapers and toothbrushes can reduce bacteria on the tongue, the majority of studies have found that using a tongue scraper is more effective than a toothbrush.
Backing up the claim, a 2006 analysis that took a closer look at two studies on bad breath and tongue cleaning found that tongue scrapers reduced volatile sulfur compounds more effectively than toothbrushes.
Here's a seven-step guide on how to clean your tongue with a scraper:
Choose a tongue scraping instrument, which could either be metal or plastic. Both work the same way, but stainless tongue scrapers are better for the environment since they last longer. It may be bent in half to form a V shape or include a handle with a rounded edge on top.
Channel your inner childlike wonder and stick your tongue out as far as you can.
Position your tongue scraper toward the back of your tongue. Avoid placing the device too far back to prevent a gag reflex.
Press the scraper down your tongue and slowly move it toward the front of your tongue while applying adequate pressure. If it hurts or cuts your tongue, apply less pressure.
Run the scraper under lukewarm or warm water to remove any debris and bacteria from the device. Spit out excess saliva that may accumulate during the scraping process.
Repeat steps 2 to 5 several more times or as needed.
Rinse the tongue scraper under water and store it properly for the next time you use it. You may scrape your tongue once or twice a day. If you gag during the process, consider scraping your tongue before meals to avoid the urge to vomit.
How to Clean Your Tongue With a Toothbrush
Using a scraper is the most effective way to clean your tongue, but you may find it easier to use a toothbrush, especially if you're already brushing your pearly whites twice a day.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your tongue with a toothbrush:
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
Stick out your tongue as far as you can.
Place your toothbrush at the back of your tongue.
Use a forward and backward motion to brush your tongue while applying light pressure.
Spit out any saliva that collects in your mouth during the brushing process and rinse out the toothbrush with water.
Brush your tongue as often as you brush your teeth.
If you have a discolored tongue, consider brushing with one part hydrogen peroxide and five parts water once a day. Rinse your mouth out with water after doing so.
Oral Mouth Rinses for Tongue Cleaning
Combined with proper tooth brushing, mouth rinses can help clean your tongue and other areas of your mouth.
Choose a therapeutic mouthwash that contains active ingredients to reduce any bacteria in your mouth that may cause bad breath and other dental problems. Quality mouth rinses are available over the counter, but you can also ask your California dentist to prescribe one for you. Follow the instructions on the back of the container to maximize its oral care benefits.
When to See a Dentist Near You
If you experience any unusual changes to your tongue, make it a priority to visit your dentist or doctor. For example, see a healthcare professional if your tongue:
Appears white or forms white patches. Leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, oral thrush, and oral cancer are some conditions that cause a tongue to look white and/or have patches.
Looks red or develops red or pink patches, which may signal a condition referred to as geographic tongue.
Looks yellow, black, or hairy
Appears smooth and/or glossy
Is sore or develops lumps that persist for more than a few weeks
Is hurt from trauma, such as accidentally biting it
Has severe burns
The Bottom Line
Whether you use a tongue scraper, toothbrush, or oral mouth rinse, tongue cleaning is a good addition to your daily oral care routine. Cleaning your tongue once or twice a day can help you minimize the risk of developing dental problems, as well as achieve a fresher-feeling mouth.
If you notice any unusual changes to your tongue, do not hesitate to see a dentist. Call us now at (855) 328-6646 if you are looking for some of the best dentists in Irvine and Montclair, CA.
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