How often should you scrape your tongue? Oral hygiene is an integral part of our daily routine. We brush our teeth, floss, and use mouthwash to maintain a clean and fresh mouth. However, one crucial step that often gets overlooked is tongue scraping.
This article will explore what tongue scraping is and How Often should you Scrape your Tongue.
What is Tongue Scraping?
Tongue scraping is a practice that involves using a tool, typically a small, flat piece of metal or plastic, to remove the buildup of particles, bacteria, and dead cells from the surface of the tongue.
This practice, common in Ayurvedic medicine, has been gaining popularity in Western cultures due to its oral health benefits.
Benefits of Tongue Scraping
Tongue scraping offers several benefits:
1. Removal of Bacteria
The tongue can harbor harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Scraping the tongue can help remove these bacteria, improving oral health.
2. Improved taste
By removing the coating on the tongue, you can enhance your sense of taste.
3. Improved Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by the buildup of bacteria on the tongue. Tongue scraping can help remove this bacteria, improving breath.
4. Improved overall health
Oral health is linked to overall health. By maintaining good oral hygiene, including tongue scraping, you can help improve your overall health.
How Often Should You Scrape Your Tongue?
So, how often should you scrape your tongue? Most dental professionals recommend scraping your tongue twice a day, typically in the morning and before bed.
This is because while we sleep, our bodies continue to process food and bacteria, leading to a buildup on the tongue overnight.
Scraping your tongue in the morning can help remove this buildup and freshen your breath for the day ahead.
However, if you notice a significant buildup on your tongue or have persistent bad breath, you may want to consider scraping your tongue twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
How to Scrape Your Tongue Properly
To scrape your tongue properly, you should
1. Use a proper tongue scraper
While some people use a toothbrush to scrape their tongue, a tongue scraper is more effective at removing buildup.
2. Start at the back:
Place the scraper at the back of your tongue and gently pull it forward. Be careful not to push too hard or you could cause discomfort or gagging.
3. Rinse after each scrape
After each scrape, rinse the scraper to remove the buildup. Repeat the process until you’ve scraped the entire surface of your tongue.
4. Clean your scraper
After you’re done, clean your scraper with warm water and soap.
Conclusion
Tongue scraping is a simple and effective way to improve your oral health and freshen your breath. By incorporating this practice into your daily routine, you can reap the benefits of a cleaner, healthier mouth.
Remember, it’s recommended to scrape your tongue once a day, but depending on your personal needs, you may find it beneficial to do it twice a day. Always follow proper technique to ensure you’re getting the most out of your tongue scraping routine.
