Tongue scrapers/tongue cleaners are tools which help get rid of bacteria, food debris and dead cells from the tongue. The tongue is often overlooked in the brushing routine; people often concentrate on the teeth while neglecting the tongue. It is important to know that the presence of debris on the tongue may cause bad breath. Although toothbrushes can be used to clean the tongue, ‘Tongue scrapers’ are more effective.
Benefits
- Prevents Bad Breath
- In addition to preventing bad breath, tongue scrapers allow better tasting of food, this is because the taste buds are free of debris.
How to use
Tongue scrapers come in various shapes and sizes. Care has to be taken not to scrape too hard. In some people, touching sensitive areas on the tongue may initiate retching/vomiting(Gag reflex).
- Stick out your tongue and put the tongue scraper as far back as you can tolerate
- Apply gentle strokes from the back forward to remove the debris.
- Rinse the tongue scraper under running water to clean out debris during and after use.
- Also rinse your mouth with water.
The ‘Tongue scraper’ can be used before or after brushing depending on what works best for you.
NB: Don’t forget to visit your Dentist regularly in order to have optimal oral health.
Photo credit: Chicago tribune