Dentistry

Why Scrape Off Your Tongue

Why Scrape Off Your Tongue

Done correctly, tongue scraping does more than freshen your breath. It enhances the flavor of foods.

Oral Hygiene

Like everyone else, you awaken each morning with a thick, smelly film of debris, bacteria, and dead cells on your tongue. It makes your breath smell bad, contributes to plaque on your teeth, and may lead to heart problems and infertility. Though brushing and flossing get most of the attention, tongue scraping should be included with your regular oral hygiene. Tongue scraping does more than freshen your breath. It can enhance the flavor of foods.

Tongue scrapers are available in various shapes. It may be a simple wire loop on the end of a stick, an open-end U-shaped metal device, or handled molded plastic with a pie-shape opening on the end. Some have ridges, bristles, or sharp edges. These can scar the tongue. Select one that has smooth edges.

Begin as far back on your tongue as possible without gagging. Press down lightly and pull forward. Wipe off with a moist face cloth. Repeat until the entire tongue is clean. Then wash the scraper in soap and warm water and let it dry.

Now you are ready to brush your teeth, floss, and swish mouthwash. Repeat this 2-minute procedure each morning, before visiting the dentist, and after each meal—particularly those with garlic and onions—to keep your breath fresh and your mouth feeling healthy.

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To support the writing of useful articles about dentistry, ClinicalPosters sells human anatomy charts, scientific posters, and other products online. You may sponsor specific articles or remit a small donation.

ClinicalPosters sells human anatomy charts, scientific posters, and other products online to offset expense of the writing useful articles about dentistry. Slide extra posters into DeuPair Frames without removing from the wall.

ClinicalPosters sells human anatomy charts, scientific posters, and other products online. You may remit a small donation.

You can support the writing of useful articles about dentistry by sponsoring specific articles or remitting a small donation. Visible content is optimized for device size.

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