Did you know most of the oral bacteria live on or around your tongue? Well, it’s true, and it’s very important that you clean your tongue every day.
Many people use their toothbrush to clean their tongues, but that technique isn’t the best cleaning option possible. One of the best cleaning tools available is the tongue scraper! Tongue scrapers are small, wand-like tools that effectively clean your tongue from the debris, bacteria, and dead cells that encompass it. These tools also clean the coatings on your tongue that form when you smoke, have a dry mouth, have poor oral hygiene, suffer from yeast infections, and use medications.
There are many different types of scrapers available, including metal, plastic, and bristle-filled scrapers. You can generally find these scrapers at the local drug or grocery stores as well as the dental office. These tools are portable and you can use them at any time of the day.
When using the scraper, please remember to:
• Rinse the tool before and after each use. This will remove the bacteria and debris that may be present.
• Clean the entire top and side surface of your tongue—not just the middle.
• Rinse your mouth after you have effectively cleaned your tongue.
Call our office today if you would like to know more or if you would like additional tips about tongue scrapers!