The Importance Of Cleaning Your Tongue

Did you know that your tongue has a rough surface? While it may seem smooth, it is filled with microscopic taste buds and “papilla.” This rough surface makes it easy for dental plaque and bacteria to become trapped in the grooves and indentations. While many of us pay special attention to brushing and flossing our teeth, the tongue is sometimes neglected. A healthy mouth starts with a clean and healthy tongue as well.

Signs And Symptoms Of A Tongue With Plaque Build-up

• Halitosis, or bad breath
• A constant bad taste in your mouth
• A tongue that appears cream or yellow coloured
• Changes in food taste

Benefits of a Clean Tongue

• Enhanced taste. Plaque covering the surface of your tongue can actually dull your taste buds
• Reduce your risk of oral thrush, which is caused by excess bacteria build up on the surface of your tongue
• Reduce bacteria in your mouth that can have harmful effects on your gums, teeth and even your overall medical health

Tips For Cleaning Your Tongue

• You can use a tongue cleaning aid to remove the plaque from your tongue. There are two types of tongue cleaners, the first type is a piece of corrugated plastic that you run or gently scape across your tongue to remove plaque. The second tool is similar to a toothbrush with bristles.
• Many manual toothbrushes actually have built-in tongue cleaners on the backside of the bristles, like a 2 in one brush.
• Run your tongue cleaners from the back of your tongue to the front of your tongue and rinse it off. This helps by scraping off the top layer of build-up on your tongue. You may need to repeat this a few times.
• You can use a CDA approved mouthwash to reduce the bacteria in your mouth.
• Clean your tongue twice a day, at the same time you brush your teeth.
• Replace your tongue cleaner at the same frequency your replace your toothbrush or when it shows signs of wear.

If you have any questions about which tongue cleaner will work best for you, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.