Why tongue cleaning is important and how to do it right

Why should you clean your tongue?

Regular cleaning of the tongue is vital for maintaining optimal oral health, especially in preventing periodontitis, coated tongue, and food debris build-up. It helps to remove bacteria, food debris, dead cells, and mucus that can accumulate on the surface of the tongue and cause bad breath (halitosis). By eliminating this debris, the risk of gum disease, tooth decay (caries), and other dental problems is significantly reduced.

In addition to the oral health benefits, regular tongue cleaning plays a crucial role in enhancing taste sensations. A coated tongue with accumulated bacteria and debris can hinder our ability to fully perceive the flavours of our food. By diligently removing these unwanted elements, we can fully enjoy the delightful nuances of our meals. Furthermore, the improved breakdown of food particles facilitates easier digestion.

Tongue cleaning also offers advantages to individuals who experience difficulty swallowing or suffer from postnasal drip. By effectively removing excess mucus, bacteria, and debris from the papillae on the back of the tongue, it helps reduce the accumulation of harmful substances in the throat, minimizing irritation to the airways.

By incorporating tongue cleaning into your oral hygiene routine, you can maintain fresh breath, promote oral health, enhance taste experiences, and alleviate certain throat-related issues. Remember, a clean tongue contributes to overall health and well-being.

Causes for tongue coating

Tongue coating (also called tongue fur or white tongue) can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications and gastrointestinal problems such as GERD or acid reflux. In addition, some people have a genetic predisposition to tongue coating due to an imbalance of oral bacteria. In some cases, it can also be caused by an underlying condition such as diabetes or iron deficiency anaemia. If the cause of the coating is not properly treated or if excessive brushing occurs, it can lead to further complications such as gingivitis and bad breath. 

How do you care for your tongue properly?

Proper tongue care is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. To ensure thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use a tongue scraper, also known as a tongue brush, to remove bacteria, food debris, and mucus from the surface of the tongue, including the back of the tongue. The gentle and slow use of the tongue scraper along the entire length of the tongue allows for the effective removal of as much debris as possible without irritating or damaging the delicate oral cavity. While it's important to note that some individuals may experience initial gagging, this discomfort tends to reduce over time.

After tongue scraping, it is crucial to rinse the mouth thoroughly with warm water to eliminate any residue. Additionally, regular tongue cleaning should be complemented by daily tooth brushing and flossing. Traditional dental care with toothpaste plays a vital role in maintaining oral hygiene by keeping the bacterial count in the oral cavity low and preventing plaque buildup on the teeth and gums.

To further enhance oral health, incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash into the routine after brushing and flossing can significantly reduce bacteria counts and promote overall oral health. By making regular tongue cleaning a part of your oral hygiene routine, you can achieve optimal results and eliminate unwanted plaque and bacteria from the oral cavity.

It's important to be aware that overcoming the initial gag reflex may take time and patience. However, by persisting and gradually adapting to the sensation, you can experience the benefits of thorough tongue cleaning, such as fresh breath, healthy teeth, and a heightened sense of taste. Remember, a comprehensive oral care routine that includes tongue care, dental care, and regular check-ups is crucial for maintaining and improving long-term oral health.

Tips for tongue cleaning

When it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy tongue, using the right tools is essential. A tongue scraper or tongue cleaner, specifically designed for this purpose, should be utilized with slow and careful strokes and light pressure along the entire length of the tongue. By gently scraping the surface, you can effectively remove bacteria, food debris, dead cells, and mucus that can accumulate and compromise dental health.

For the best results, it is recommended to opt for a tongue scraper made of stainless steel or copper. These materials are less likely to cause inflammation and provide a smooth scraping experience.

To further enhance your oral hygiene routine, consider incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash into your regimen. This can effectively reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth, maintaining a healthier oral environment and combating bad breath (halitosis). Regular tongue cleaning, performed at least once or twice a week, is crucial for optimal dental health and preventing the buildup of unpleasant odors.

By paying attention to the cleanliness of your tongue, especially the back of your tongue where bacteria tend to accumulate, you can promote fresher breath and enhance your taste buds' sensitivity. Remember, a clean tongue not only contributes to your overall oral health and wellness but also ensures a more enjoyable and flavorful eating experience.

Home remedy for tongue cleaning

Home remedies for cleaning the tongue can be an effective and inexpensive way to maintain good oral hygiene. Common home remedies include using salt water or baking soda to clean the surface of the tongue. These solutions can help reduce bacteria on the tongue by drawing out extra moisture and killing germs. It is also important to brush and floss your teeth regularly to reduce the amount of bacteria. Some also believe that gargling with apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil can help with bad breath caused by bacteria on the tongue. Of course, it is always best to see a dentist if you have persistent chronic bad breath or other problems with your oral health, as these could be signs of deeper dental problems.

Can you also clean the tongue with a toothbrush?

While it is possible to clean the tongue with a toothbrush, this should not be your primary cleaning method. Brushing your teeth does help remove bacteria and debris from the surface of your tongue, but it is not as effective as using a special tongue scraper. A tongue scraper is specifically designed to remove bacteria, food debris and mucus from the surface of the tongue without irritating or damaging the delicate tissue. For optimal oral health, you should not only use a tongue scraper regularly but also brush and floss twice a day.

For optimal tongue care, we recommend a professional dental hygiene treatment, including tongue cleaning, at one of our ALPINE WHITE studios. Our experienced experts use advanced techniques and special tools to thoroughly care for your tongue and remove tongue plaque. Make an appointment today and learn how a professional treatment can improve your oral health. Give your tongue the attention it deserves and soon enjoy a fresh and healthy mouthfeel.

Optimal oral hygiene with ALPINE WHITE

For optimal tongue care, we recommend a professional dental hygiene treatment, including tongue cleaning, at one of our ALPINE WHITE studios. Our experienced experts use advanced techniques and special tools to thoroughly care for your tongue and remove tongue plaque. Make an appointment today and learn how a professional treatment can improve your oral health. Give your tongue the attention it deserves and soon enjoy a fresh and healthy mouthfeel.