Tongue brushes and tongue scrapers penetrate the tiny fissures on the tongue and clean out harmful deposits. Tongue brushes look like your toothbrush but have a wide surface that brushes the surface of the tongue. Tongue scrapers, on the other hand, curve to fit the natural shape of your tongue and are either plastic or metal. According to a recent study, tongue cleaners, in general, reduce the number of bacteria on the tongue. And the plastic tongue scraper in this study was the most effective in removing the bacteria. However, more research needs to be done to determine which tool is the best for cleaning the tongue.
If you want to try cleaning your tongue with a tongue brush or scraper, make sure you rinse them with clean water before and after using it. To clean your tongue, dab a small amount of toothpaste on your tongue brush. Begin at the back tongue and work your way forward, using gentle circular motions with the brush or smoothly dragging your scraper. Once you've cleaned your tongue's surface, rinse your tongue. Make sure to avoid pressing too hard with the tongue brush or scraper. You don't want to make your tongue bleed or feel sore in any way. That's not the goal.
Now you know all about cleaning your tongue. Of course, you can brush your tongue with a toothbrush. But a tongue brush or scraper can help you refine this practice and keep your tongue as clean as possible. Remember to be gentle when you clean your tongue. If you want to start cleaning your tongue, try a brush or scraper today. Or ask your dentist what they recommend.