Tongue scraping is an oral hygiene practice that involves removing bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells from the surface of the tongue using a tongue scraper. The benefits of tongue scraping include:
- Improved oral hygiene: Tongue scraping helps remove bacteria and other debris from the tongue’s surface, reducing the risk of oral infections, bad breath, and plaque buildup.
- Freshens breath: By removing the bacteria that cause bad breath, tongue scraping can help improve the freshness of your breath.
- Enhanced taste buds: Tongue scraping can help remove the buildup that can coat and dull your taste buds, allowing you to better taste and enjoy your food.
- Supports overall health: Good oral hygiene, including tongue scraping, can contribute to overall health by reducing the risk of infections and promoting a healthy immune system.
To perform tongue scraping, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a tongue scraper: You can find tongue scrapers made from various materials, such as stainless steel, copper, or plastic. Choose one that feels comfortable and easy to clean.
- Clean your tongue scraper: Before using your tongue scraper, make sure to clean it with soap and water.
- Stick out your tongue: Stand in front of a mirror and stick out your tongue to get a clear view of its surface.
- Place the scraper at the back of your tongue: Gently place the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue, being careful not to trigger your gag reflex.
- Scrape your tongue: Apply gentle pressure and scrape the tongue scraper forward towards the tip of your tongue. Make sure to cover the entire surface of your tongue.
- Clean the scraper: After each scrape, rinse the scraper under running water to remove debris. Repeat the process until you have covered the entire surface of your tongue and the scraper comes away clean.
- Rinse your mouth: Once you’ve finished scraping your tongue, rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining debris.
- Clean your scraper: Thoroughly clean your tongue scraper with soap and water after each use, and store it in a clean, dry place.
For best results, incorporate tongue scraping into your daily oral hygiene routine, ideally in the morning and/or evening alongside brushing and flossing. However, be gentle when scraping to avoid causing any irritation or damage to your tongue. If you experience any discomfort, consult your dentist or healthcare provider.