Do you know how to clean your tongue accurately? The easiest way to do this is with the same brush you use to clean your teeth or a tongue cleaner. Next, we will tell you about the recommended ways to clean your tongue and what are the most effective methods.
Why should we pay attention and care to the tongue?
It may surprise you, but many people do not include the tongue in their oral hygiene routine. For this reason, we have decided to pay attention to the matter since the tongue is one of the parts of the body that accumulates the most bacteria. At the time of brushing, we mustn’t forget to clean it.
The tongue plays a fundamental role in our lives since it performs the functions of chewing, swallowing, and tasting the food we consume. It also allows us to speak.
The tongue has an irregular surface formed by different grooves. The problem comes when these holes accumulate food remains that must have been removed by brushing.
All the not removed residues cause the development of bacteria and the subsequent appearance of oral problems such as halitosis or bad breath.
The tongue is clean and healthy and has a pink colour. On the contrary, if you notice a whitish or yellowish layer covering the tongue, it is a sign of poor hygiene.
However, a whitish tongue is not always a consequence of poor hygiene. Some diseases, such as oral candidiasis, can cause the appearance of this colour.
It is important to distinguish if we have one of these problems or if we require an improvement in oral hygiene.
When whitish colour is due to disease, brushing will not eliminate it. In this case, it is advisable to go to a trusted dental clinic to obtain a professional diagnosis.
How to clean your tongue with a tongue scraper?
In order to wash the tongue properly, implements can incorporate into hygiene routines: the tongue scraper is one of them. The size and shape of the scraper may vary, and these can be plastic or metal.
For a scraper to be effective, you must use it gently, making movements from the deepest part of the tongue to the tip. After each pass, it is convenient to rinse the scraper with warm water. To avoid gagging, stick out your tongue as far as you can.
Studies have found that using a tongue scraper is more effective than a toothbrush.
How to clean your tongue with a toothbrush?
If you can’t get hold of a tongue scraper, don’t worry, you can still clean your tongue with a brush.
Almost all the latest models of electric toothbrushes include a head that works as a tongue scraper.
Although using a toothbrush may be less effective than using a tongue scraper, you may find it easier to use. Gently brush back and forth along your tongue. If you regularly use mouthwash in your brushing routine, it can be beneficial to help cleanse your tongue and other parts of your mouth.
Do not hesitate to consult our dentists if you have a colour change in your tongue.
