Tongue scraper: how to use and benefits

Tongue scraping helps remove debris, bacteria, and dead cells and may have other benefits, including improving taste

A tongue scraper is an item that helps quickly remove excess particles, including those that cause bad breath, from the surface of the tongue. While no amount of scaling can replace good tooth brushing, its benefits motivate many to add this extra step to their morning and evening routine.

Advantages of the tongue scraper

Debris, bacteria and dead cells can build up on the tongue over time. This can cause bad breath and negatively impact your overall oral health.

Using a tongue scraper can help remove this buildup, as well as:

Improve your taste.

Previous research suggests that using a tongue scraper twice a day can improve taste. Your tongue will be better able to distinguish between bitter, sweet, salty, and sour sensations.

Improve the appearance of your tongue.

The buildup of excess debris can cause the tongue to take on a white, coated appearance. Daily scraping can help remove this coating and prevent it from returning.

Removes bacteria.

Researchers in a 2005 study found that using a tongue scraper twice a day for seven days reduced the overall incidence of Mutans streptococcus and lactobacilli bacteria in the mouth. These types of bacteria are known to cause bad breath and tooth decay.

Improves overall health.

Removing bacteria is critical to preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other conditions that affect the mouth. Tongue scraping can help eliminate these bacteria from the mouth, improving the overall appearance of the tongue.

Reduces bad breath.

While tongue scraping cannot replace brushing your teeth, it can improve some things. Researchers in a 2004 study found that scraping is more effective than brushing at removing odor-causing bacteria.

Tongue scraping and bad breath

A common misconception about tongue scraping is that it offers benefits prolonged in reducing bad breath. While scraping can help eliminate bad breath, consistency is key.

For example, using a tongue scraper in the morning does not prevent bad breath from developing later in the day. Bacteria builds up as you eat and drink, so if you’re worried about bad breath, you’ll need to shave after every meal.

At the very least, scrape your tongue when brushing your teeth. This will help prevent long-term buildup associated with severe bad breath.

Tongue scraper vs. toothbrush

You can also brush your tongue with your toothbrush, but results from a 2004 study show that tongue scrapers remove 30 percent more volatile sulfur compounds from the tongue than a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Although cleaning your tongue with a toothbrush is better than not cleaning it at all, using a tongue scraper is more effective.

How to use the tongue scraper

1. Stand in front of a mirror, open your mouth and stick your tongue out.
2. Gently place the rounded end of the scraper on the back of your tongue.
3. If you’re worried about choking, it might help to start in the center of your tongue. You can gradually start further back as you get used to shaving.
4. Gently touch the scraper to your tongue. Slowly pull it forward, towards the tip of your tongue. You should never push the tongue tip scraper back. Always go from the back of the tongue to the tip.
5. Repeat until the entire surface of the tongue is scraped. Generally, one or two scratches in the same area are sufficient.
6. Wash the tongue scraper with warm soapy water, dry it and store it in a clean, dry place.

The entire process usually takes less than two minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.

[abril_afiliado_single titulo=”Compre%20o%20seu” image=”111835″ grupo0loja=”Alva Personal Care” grupo0url=”https://amzn.to/3xDjGDe” grupo0valor=”46,90″ /]

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.