Should I Brush My Tongue?

In recent years, tongue scrapers have become more popular in the dental care sections of supermarkets and chemists. Some live on the backs of toothbrushes and others are a specific tongue scraping tool. In many cultures around the world, tongue scraping has actually been practised for thousands of years.

If you’re wondering if tongue scraping is something you should start doing as part of your dental hygiene routine, here are the facts on available products to help you decide.

What Exactly Is Happening on My Tongue?

When you eat and drink, it’s not just your teeth that are at risk of being harbourers of bacteria, so is your tongue. Your tongue contains tastebuds and has a rough surface, giving germs the perfect hiding place to breed. 

Why Should I Brush my Tongue?

Given that almost all of the bacteria living in your mouth actually inhabit your tongue, it’s a good idea to brush your tongue as well as your teeth. There are additional benefits to tongue brushing, including:

• eliminating or preventing bad breath by reducing any odour causing germs that often accumulate on the tongue

• remove germs that could affect your dental health and your overall health as bacteria on the tongue can be swallowed and cause your body harm

• remove tastebud-clogging bacteria that create a furry feeling on your tongue and make foods taste bland and feel unpalatable.                                                                             

Should I Use a Tongue Scraper?

 There are a variety of tongue scrapers available on the market, and while they may be helpful, it’s also perfectly fine to use your toothbrush or your brush may even have a tongue cleaner on the back of the brush itself.

How Do Tongue Scrapers Work?

Use a tongue scraper by putting the tool as far back on your tongue as possible and then sliding it forward to remove built-up bacteria. When you have used a tongue scraper effectively, rinsing your mouth and brushing will further reduce any built up bacteria on your tongue which will easily wash out due to the tongue scraper loosening particles on your tongue’s surface. 

Contact Titirangi Dental for Your Oral Health Needs

At Titirangi Dental in West Auckland, we can give you all the information and personal advice on tongue scraping and other dental health needs. We will do so in a way that puts your mind at ease. Our attentive and educated team are here to make sure you are receiving the best care possible for your teeth. For all your oral health needs, contact Titirangi Dental at West Auckland to make your appointment today.