Tongue Scrapers: An Effective Solution for Bad Breath and Lingering Food Taste, Says CNN Article
Tongue scrapers, metal or plastic devices used to clean the surface of the tongue, may be the solution to getting rid of bad breath and lingering food tastes, according to a recent CNN article. While there are no official guidelines on how often to use tongue scrapers, they have shown some effectiveness in removing bacteria, food particles, and dead cells from the tongue.
The tongue, being one of the most flexible muscles in the body, plays a crucial role in speech and the movement of food during eating and swallowing. However, when the mouth is opened, it invites bacteria to enter, leading to the formation of colonies on the tongue’s surface. Tongue scrapers are capable of removing these bacteria, both good and bad, resulting in a cleaner mouth.
Dr. Michael Kosdon, a cosmetic dentist at Smiles of NYC in Manhattan, likens tongue scrapers to combs for the tongue. The tool effectively strips off the white film that accumulates on the tongue, containing a buildup of bacteria, food particles, and dead cells. This film also contains sulfur-causing bacteria responsible for bad breath. By scraping off this film, individuals can taste things better since the germs are cleared from the area where taste buds are located.
Although there have been a few medical studies supporting the use of tongue scrapers, the American Dental Association does not currently endorse their use due to limited and temporary effects. However, there is no harm in trying them alongside other recommended oral hygiene practices, such as brushing teeth for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly.
Dr. Alice Boghosian, the consumer adviser spokesperson for the American Dental Association, personally recommends tongue scraping as part of her oral hygiene routine. She scrapes her tongue at night before sleeping and in the morning after flossing and brushing. This routine helps her feel like she has a cleaner mouth.
Using a tongue scraper is simple. It is advised to go up and down the tongue three to five times, exerting a bit of pressure without pushing down too harshly. Starting in the middle of the tongue is recommended to avoid triggering the gag reflex. Care should be taken not to cause cuts on the little bumps on the tongue called papillae, as this may lead to inflammation and irritation when consuming acidic and spicy foods.
For those considering tongue scraping, it’s advised to rinse the tongue scraper with soap and water after each use. Dr. Kosdon also suggests disinfecting the tongue scraper by soaking it in water mixed with hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes.
In conclusion, while there is no official guideline on how often to use a tongue scraper, it can be incorporated into one’s oral hygiene routine as long as the basics, including brushing teeth and flossing, are prioritized. Experts suggest using it at least twice a day for a deeper clean. Tongue scrapers offer a trial-and-error process, and individuals should find the right balance between effectively removing plaque and avoiding injury.