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The Benefits of Tongue Scraping

Posted on 3/15/2024 by Weo Admin

close up of a patient with their tongue stuck out about to clean with a tongue scraper

Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of good oral hygiene, but have you considered adding another tool to your routine? Tongue scraping is an ancient practice with surprising modern benefits.

Why Your Tongue Needs TLC

Despite being tucked away, your tongue harbors a diverse community of bacteria. While some are beneficial, others can contribute to bad breath, plaque buildup, and even gum disease. The bumpy surface of your tongue provides the perfect haven for these bacteria to thrive, forming a film that brushing alone cannot fully remove. This is where tongue scraping comes in.

Advantages of Tongue Scraping

By gently scraping the surface of your tongue with a specialized tool, you can remove this film, along with trapped food debris and dead cells. This simple act offers a multitude of advantages for your oral and overall health.

Fresher Breath

Say goodbye to persistent bad breath! The bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors often reside on the tongue. Regular tongue scraping can significantly reduce these bacteria, leaving you feeling confident and minty-fresh.

Enhanced Taste

Have you noticed your food tasting a little bland lately? Buildup on your tongue can dull your taste buds. Tongue scraping removes this barrier, allowing you to experience the full flavor spectrum of your meals.

Improved Oral Hygiene

Tongue scraping helps remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the tongue surface. By eliminating these contaminants, you reduce the risk of dental problems such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. The cleaner your tongue, the healthier your mouth will be.

Promotion of Overall Health

Research suggests oral health is linked to various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Reducing the bacterial load in your mouth through tongue scraping may lower the risk of developing these potentially severe health issues. Aim to scrape your tongue once or twice daily for optimal results.

Tongue scraping is a complementary step in your oral hygiene journey. So, unlock a fresher, healthier you with the simple act of tongue scraping. Your mouth (and taste buds!) will thank you for it.

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Dental Blog • Nancy Shiba, DDS
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914 / (669) 306-7669 / nancyshibadds.com / 10/7/2024