The Ultimate Guide to Achieving a Refreshingly Clean Mouth: Master the Art of Tongue Scraping

Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, a freelance health and science journalist based in New York, suggests using a tongue scraper if you are unable to eliminate the lingering taste of onion, garlic, or cheese even after brushing.

The tongue, being one of the most flexible muscles in the body, performs various functions. It aids in speech and actively facilitates the movement of food to enhance taste, chewing, and swallowing. However, opening your mouth allows bacteria to enter, leading to the formation of colonies on the surface of your tongue over time.

While there are both beneficial and harmful bacteria present on the tongue, the use of tongue scrapers can effectively eliminate these germs if used properly.

A tongue scraper is a tool made of metal or plastic that is used to effectively clean the surface of the tongue. According to Dr. Michael Kosdon, a cosmetic dentist at Smiles of NYC in Manhattan, tongue scrapers can be compared to combs specifically designed for the tongue.

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The tool effectively removes the unpleasant white film that accumulates in the crevices of the taste buds, which is a combination of bacteria, food particles, and dead cells. This film includes the bacteria responsible for producing sulfur compounds that lead to bad breath.

According to Kosdon, tongue scraping is beneficial for individuals who have a buildup of bacteria and film on their tongue. By removing these deposits, one can actually improve their sense of taste since the germs are obstructing the taste buds.

Is there scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of tongue scrapers?

A few medical studies have indicated the effectiveness of tongue scraping in eliminating tongue bacteria and combating bad breath. However, these studies were predominantly conducted on a limited scale and did not provide conclusive evidence. Several clinical trials that were conducted observed a marginally higher efficacy of tongue scrapers compared to toothbrushes for cleansing the tongue, although these benefits were only temporary.

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Science does not provide strong evidence for the use of tongue scrapers in cleaning teeth, therefore the American Dental Association does not currently endorse it. However, individuals can still try it if they want, as long as they prioritize the other recommended practices of brushing teeth for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and regularly visiting the dentist, according to Dr. Alice Boghosian, the consumer adviser spokesperson for the American Dental Association.

"Personally, I scrape my tongue at night before I go to sleep and in the morning after I floss and brush," Boghosian said. "It makes me feel like I have a cleaner mouth."

How to use a tongue scraper

Kosdon advised using a tongue scraper in a similar way to using a razor. To effectively remove bacteria, gently scrape up and down the tongue three to five times. Apply slight pressure while scraping. It is recommended to begin in the middle of the tongue rather than attempting to reach the back entirely, as going too far back may trigger the gag reflex.

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Avoid applying excessive pressure as it may lead to microscopic cuts on the tiny protrusions of your tongue known as papillae. These minuscule bumps house your taste buds, and by inadvertently injuring them, you may experience inflammation and irritation while consuming acidic and spicy foods.

"It's a process of trial and error," Boghosian suggested. "Apply gentle pressure and evaluate the effectiveness of plaque removal without risking self-inflicted cuts."

How frequently should you utilize a tongue scraper?

There are no specific rules regarding the frequency of using a tongue scraper. However, as long as individuals follow the basic oral hygiene practices of brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing, they can use a tongue scraper whenever they feel it is necessary for a thorough cleaning.

For those aiming to incorporate tongue scraping into their daily oral care routine, it is advisable to do it at least twice a day, according to Kosdon. He suggests that it is a beneficial addition to everyone's hygiene routine and poses no harm if done correctly.