How To Clean Your Tongue Effectively

Unlike your teeth, your tongue has a rough surface full of many peaks and troughs that are the perfect place for bacteria to settle and grow. The tongue has the highest bacterial load compared to the other areas of your mouth. 

However, most individuals do not take the time to clean their tongue. Tongue cleaning will help you avoid tooth decay, bad breath, gum problems, and much more. Here are some simple tips to clean your tongue effectively.

Pick a tool:

It is relatively easy to perform tongue scraping and requires minimal equipment. There are various types of tools for tongue cleaning. Scrapers are the most popular of them. Tongue brushes, although relatively recent, are also relatively common. A toothbrush can also be used to clean your tongue. Scrapers are available in metal, plastics, as well as eco-friendly bamboo material. They appear to be either spoon-like shape or U-shaped.

How to clean with a tongue scraper:

Extend your tongue as far as you can. This is so that the maximum length can be accessed. You can also prevent gagging by stretching your tongue all the way.

Place the scraper at the back of your tongue. Move it towards the front of your tongue while applying gentle pressure.

Remove and rinse the scraper with water to remove any debris and bacteria. Spit out any excess saliva during the tongue scraping process that could have built up.

Repeat the above process a few times at different angles. Rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash to remove any residual debris or food particles.

For the next use, clean the tongue scraper and store it. 

How to clean your tongue using a toothbrush:

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush. Stick your tongue out as far as it reaches.

Place your toothbrush at the back of the tongue.

Brush gently over the tongue in a back and forth motion.

During the brushing, spit out the saliva that collects in the mouth and rinse the toothbrush with water.

How frequently should you clean your tongue?

Bacteria grow quickly. Cleaning your tongue twice daily after you brush your teeth is the best way to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. Removing the debris from your tongue before bedtime will also help minimize bad breath in the morning when you wake up.

Tongue brushing is a healthy addition to your everyday oral hygiene habits. Whether you use a tongue scraper, toothbrush, or oral mouth rinse, brushing your tongue will help minimize bad breath, as well as reduce the risk of cavities and other oral health problems.