health
‘This is as important as your teeth’: are you skipping this key part of mouth hygiene?
Some dentists say cleaning your tongue is as important as brushing your teeth. Here’s how it’s done
TL;DR
- Tongue cleaning is considered as important as brushing and flossing for oral hygiene.
- Biofilm, a collection of bacteria and debris, accumulates on the tongue and can lead to health issues.
- Tongue cleaning helps prevent bad breath caused by sulfur-producing bacteria.
- Tongue scrapers, especially metal ones, are preferred over toothbrushes for cleaning the tongue.
- Gentle, twice-daily tongue cleaning is recommended, similar to brushing and flossing.
- Overcleaning the tongue should be avoided as it may disrupt the oral microbiome.
- Mouthwash without alcohol can be used to freshen breath, but it doesn't kill bacteria.
- Checking the tongue's sides and underside for irregularities is important for early detection of oral cancer.