We always recommend that dental patients brush at least twice a day and floss daily, but we don't want to leave out the tongue either. The tongue should also be cleaned, in addition to your teeth. The following information elaborates on why you should brush the tongue daily.
How Brushing the Tongue Benefits Oral Health
The surface of your tongue features small papillae that capture germs and particles of food. Rather than using a drying mouthwash, which contains alcohol, to mask bad breath, it is better to brush the tongue to keep the breath fresh and germ-free. When you brush your tongue, you get rid of all the odor-causing and disease-causing bacteria that lead to gum inflammations, bleeding, infections, bad breath, and cavities. If you wish to rinse your mouth, it is better to use a lukewarm salt water rinse or an antimicrobial mouthwash, without alcohol, that we recommend. Brush your tongue once a day after you brush your teeth, either in the morning or the evening.
How You Should Brush Your Tongue
To brush your tongue, you will need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue brush or tongue scraper. Usually, it is better to use the tongue brush or a tongue scraper, as these dental tools are designed to capture any debris expertly. According to the publication, the Cochrane Systemic Data Review, tongue cleaners freshened the breath better than when a toothbrush was used. You might also consider using a toothbrush with a tongue brush on the reverse side. Make sure you rinse the tongue brush or scraper after each use. Whatever tool you use, begin toward the back of the tongue and move forward. If you use a brush, use soft circular motions and, if a scraper is used, lithely glide the scraper over the tongue's surface.
Do you have further questions about tongue scraping? If so, we can answer them. If you have not had a dental cleaning or exam in some time, make an appointment with us today. We can conveniently arrange a time that will fit your schedule.
Dental Blog | Neu Family Dental | East Dundee, IL Neu Family Dental, 573 Dundee Avenue, East Dundee, IL 60118 / (847) 230-9143 / neufamilydental.com / 10/13/2024 / Page Keywords: Dentist East Dundee IL /
We always recommend that dental patients brush at least twice a day and floss daily, but we don't want to leave out the tongue either. The tongue should also be cleaned, in addition to your teeth. The following information elaborates on why you should brush the tongue daily.