Tongue scraper: find out how to use it and whether it is essential for oral hygiene

Scraping, a cult practice of Ayurvedic medicine, does not involve any risk and helps fight bad breath, but a toothbrush can be used for the same function.

The practice is old, but has gained popularity again in recent years among various habits that promise to improve health and prevent disease. The difference is that, according to experts, the act of scratching your tongue has real benefits.

The first of these is linked to bad breath, a common discomfort both for those who suffer from the problem and for those who smell the smell coming from other people. Dentist Larissa Valadares, a specialist in orthodontics, TMD and bruxism, explains that scraping cleans the lining of the tongue, a whitish layer composed of cells released from the mouth, bacteria, salivary mucus and food debris that adheres to the surface of the tongue.

How many times a day should I scratch my tongue?

Furthermore, cleaning the tongue improves the perception of taste, promotes the production of saliva, which helps prevent bad breath and tooth decay, and helps reduce the formation of bacterial plaque, consequently also reducing the onset of carious lesions on the teeth.

“Ideal would be to clean the tongue after each meal. If this is not possible, it is recommended to remove the tongue coating at least once a day, preferably in the morning,” says the dentist.

How to scrape your tongue?

• The procedure is simple. Follow the four steps listed by your dentist:
• Rinse your mouth with water to lightly moisten the coating of your tongue.
• Hold the tongue scraper and place it as far back as possible on the outstretched tongue
• Drag the scraper across the tongue using light pressure from back to front and repeat the movement three or four times
• Rinse your mouth and clean the scraper

Do you need a tongue scraper to clean your tongue?

Anyone who has looked for tongue scrapers knows that there are different models, whether made of copper, steel or plastic, and also prices: the report found the item with prices ranging from R$12 to R$99. But it is not necessary to buy it the cheapest option.

Larissa Valadares reminds that the toothbrush itself can be used to clean the tongue, but there are multiple reports of gagging with the product intended for this use. In this sense, scrapers are more suitable, easily available in pharmacies and on the internet. The choice of material is at the user’s discretion.

Why use copper scraper?

The scraper also has an advantage over the brush for those who like it ayurvedic medicine, as the dentist explains.

“In the West we tend to consider the tongue only as a tool for enjoying food, but in the East, especially in the Ayurvedic tradition, we take into account that the tongue is the mirror of health because it is an extension of the stomach. Taking care of it, brushing or shaving regularly, prevents various toxins from being absorbed by the body. As a result, the entire immune system benefits.”

According to Larissa, this science recommends the use of copper tongue scrapers because the metal has antibacterial properties. The idea is that copper not only kills “bad” bacteria in the mouth, but instinctively allows healthy bacteria to thrive.

Are there any risks in scraping your tongue?

Just like brushing, cleaning with a scraper poses no risks. The only contraindication is when there are blisters or cuts on the tongue. In these cases it is advisable to wait for complete healing before resuming application of the scraper.

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.