6 benefits of Brushing your tongue
We should all know how important it is to clean your teeth, twice daily, but many people underestimate the importance of making sure your tongue is clean. So if you are thinking, am I meant to brush my tongue? The answer is yes!
Understanding your tongue and how to clean is an important skill that will add value to your oral health routine.
Below you can read about the three best ways to clean your tongue.
Tongue Scraper
Studies have shown that tongue scrapers are the most effective way to remove plaque from both our tongue and mouths. Tongues are also flatter and less intrusive than a toothbrush.
They are typically made out of metal or plastic, and all you need to do is move the scraper from the back of the tongue forward to the surface. Make sure you scrape the entire surface area of your tongue, not just one place.
You then repeat this step 2-5 times as needed, then proceed to clean your scraper for the next use.
Toothbrush
A toothbrush is the next best thing to clean your tongue with, if you don’t have a specialized tongue scraper.
Considering our tongue and teeth touch all the time and share a lot of bacteria, you don’t need a separate toothbrush to clean them. You can clean your tongue before or after brushing your teeth, the choice is yours!
Make sure you rinse your mouth out with water after cleaning your tongue, as well as cleaning your brush.
Benefits of brushing tongue bacteria.
Helps alleviate bad breath
The tongue can be covered in layers or bacteria because of poor oral hygiene, smoking, dry mouth or certain medication. A build up of bacteria will start to exude unpleasant odours.
Makes your food taste better
Brushing your tongue frees up your tastebuds encouraging a healthy amount of saliva production, aiding digestion and improving the overall flavour of your food.
Becoming comfortable with the right oral habits will ensure that your food always tastes amazing, even if you aren’t the best cook!
Helps prevent cavities
Brushing of the bacteria from your tongue will reduce plaque formation within your mouth that could be a cause of tooth decay, gum disease and cavities.
Boost your immune system
The tongue is the first point of call for anything that enters your mouth, because of this it plays a crucial role in your overall immune system. When bacteria gathers on your tongue it can absorb and make its way into other parts of the body. Cleaning your tongue regularly will prevent the chance of bacteria spreading.
Reduces plaque
Studies have shown that regular tongue cleaning reduced overall plaque levels.
Feeling Fresh
Who doesn’t love feeling fresh and clean? Cleaning your tongue will contribute to a fresher feeling in your mouth!
So there you have it, the guide on how to and why to keep your tongue clean and feeling fresh. If you have any questions or want more information on tongue health please give us a call.
