If we had to hazard a guess at your daily dental routine, it most likely includes a toothbrush (manual or electric), toothpaste (perhaps a whitening variety?) and dental floss (if you're serious about dental hygiene). But what about a tongue cleaner? Does that ever make it into your cart (in-store or online), or do you consider it an industry marketing tool?
An ideal oral hygiene regimen should include cleaning your tongue, but this is often overlooked. Your tongue is a breeding ground for bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, which contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup and can even affect your overall health.
“Most people don’t realise that tongue cleaning can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease by controlling bacterial buildup in the mouth.” –Dr. Sarah Fraser, DDS
Adding a tongue cleaner to your daily routine can significantly improve your oral hygiene and leave your mouth feeling fresher than ever.
Getting to grips with a tongue cleaner
A tongue cleaner - aka a tongue scraper - is a simple yet effective tool designed to remove debris and bacteria from the surface of your tongue.
Coming in various materials - like stainless steel, copper, and plastic - each has its benefits:
-
Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust.
-
Copper: Naturally antibacterial and long-lasting.
-
Plastic: Lightweight, budget-friendly, and often comes in disposable or travel-friendly options.
Using a tongue scraper regularly helps eliminate the buildup that a toothbrush alone may not effectively remove, leading to improved oral health and fresher breath.
The link between a clean tongue and fresh breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria and food particles lingering on the tongue. When these bacteria break down, they release foul-smelling sulphur compounds, leading to persistent bad breath. Even if you brush your teeth twice a day, an unclean tongue can still harbour bacteria, making your efforts incomplete.
“If you’re brushing and flossing but still experiencing bad breath, it’s time to add a tongue scraper to your routine—it’s a game-changer for oral health.” –Dr. Steven Lin, DDS
By using a tongue cleaner daily, you can:
✅ Reduce bacteria that cause bad breath
✅ Enhance your taste perception
✅ Improve overall oral hygiene
✅ Minimise plaque buildup
✅ Reduce the risk of gum disease
All you need is 10 seconds
Incorporating a tongue cleaner into your routine is quick and easy:
-
Stick out your tongue: The more surface area you expose, the better the results.
-
Place the tongue scraper at the back: Position it as far back as comfortable to target bacteria buildup.
-
Scrape forward gently: Apply light pressure and scrape from back to front. Repeat 2–3 times.
-
Rinse and repeat: Rinse the scraper after each pass and repeat until your tongue looks clean.
-
Finish with mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash for an extra boost of freshness.
Tongue cleaner vs toothbrush
We hear the cynics among you. Why can’t your toothbrush not double up as a tongue cleaner? Surely it is as effective?
Here’s the simple answer: While brushing your tongue with a toothbrush can remove some bacteria, it’s not as effective as a scraper. The bristles tend to move bacteria around rather than remove them entirely.
“Think of your tongue as a sponge—it absorbs bacteria, food particles, and toxins. Scraping it daily helps detoxify your mouth and body.” –Dr. Daniel Rubinshtein, DDS
A tongue scraper is designed specifically for the job. It effectively removes bacteria, debris, and dead cells and provides a much cleaner surface. (If you’ve only been using your toothbrush, consider switching to a tongue scraper for a more thorough clean.)
Additional tips for a holistic approach to oral hygiene
The ‘tools of the trade’ are self-explanatory and well-tested in doing their jobs to keep your teeth at their best. However, several easy-to-adopt habits and practices are worth implementing to contribute to your overall health and general oral wellness.
✅ Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated.
✅ Avoid excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods that contribute to bacterial growth.
✅ Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to kill bacteria without drying out your mouth.
✅ Replace your tongue scraper regularly, especially if it’s plastic.
✅ Visit your dentist for regular checkups to ensure your oral health is in top condition.
A small step with big benefits
If you want to eliminate bad breath, enhance your taste buds, and reduce bacteria contributing to dental issues, adding a tongue cleaner to your daily oral care routine is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall hygiene.
It’s quick and effective, and you can get yours online at South Africa’s first online dental store.