When it comes to brushing, most of us focus on our teeth. While this is a particularly important way of maintaining good oral health, how often do you pay attention to your tongue? The truth is, your tongue is just as much of a hub for bacteria as the rest of your mouth, and it accumulates between the taste buds and other tongue structures.
Unfortunately, using mouthwash isn’t enough to rid your tongue of bacteria, and the only way to make sure it’s removed is to brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper. This is because the tongue is not a smooth muscular organ, and it’s full of crevices and elevations where germs can hide.
How should I clean my tongue?
You can clean your tongue by using the bristles of your toothbrush and a touch of toothpaste, brushing backwards and forwards and side to side. You can also buy toothbrushes that have tongue cleaners built in one the back, which are particularly handy for the job.
For a more thorough clean, use a tongue scraper. These are often made of flexible plastic or metal and gently lift the mucous layer that sits on the tongue. If your tongue bleeds or hurts, make sure you apply a lighter touch. Finally - don’t forget to wash the scraper when you’ve finished using it.
How often shall I clean my tongue?
Try to make cleaning your tongue a regular part of your brushing routine, doing it at least twice a day. This will not only improve your oral health, but will make your breath smell fresher and remove potentially harmful bacteria. As with any mouthcare routine, we’d recommend finishing off with mouthwash, ensuring you kill any remaining bacteria.
At Riverside Dental Spa, we believe that prevention is better than a cure and always promote regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can spot any areas of concern and nip any potential problems in the bud. To arrange your dental check-up, please call our Vauxhall-based team on 020 7091 0677 or email us here.
