Tongue scraper: the best tool against bad breath

If we talk about the health of the mouth, we usually focus on the teeth. This is the guideline of nutrident But language is also important, let's not forget it! And using a tongue scraper is one way to take care of your tongue.

Some facts about the language

Few people know it, but the tongue is a powerful muscle. Because of its rich structure in nerves and blood vessels, it is also a sensitive organ.

The tongue is composed of a mobile group of muscles attached to the bottom of the mouth. The ceiling of the tongue is covered with small bumps called papillae.

This is where the taste buds are found.

The tongue is useful for tasting, swallowing and chewing food. It is also necessary to form the words that make up our language. A pink, moist tongue with a thin, slightly white coating on its surface is considered healthy.

Ever wonder why the doctor puts his tongue depressor in your mouth?

The mouth is a good barometer of the body's well-being. All the more reason to take good care of it!

The Antibacterial Tongue Scraper: What is it for?

The tongue scraper is effective in removing excess particles – especially those that cause halitosis – from the surface of your tongue. This is done with a small tool made of metal or plastic.

Although the tongue scraper is not intended to replace the toothbrush, its benefits have encouraged many to include it in their morning and evening routine.

Research has concluded that a tongue scraper is more effective at removing toxins and bacteria than a toothbrush after each meal. While brushing and flossing may move debris from the teeth, they don't quite remove the bacteria.

Almost half of the bacteria in the oral microbiota live in the deep crevices of the tongue, scraping will collect the toxic layers (colors range from white to green to yellow) and remove them from the body after each pass. The use of the tongue scraper ensures a better oral hygiene and a fresh breath.

What are the advantages of the tongue scraper?

Residues, bacteria and dead cells can accumulate in spades. This can have an impact on your breath and have a negative impact on your health.

Here is the list of benefits of using a tongue scraper, in addition to removing deposits:

• Remove bacteria: Researchers have shown that using a tongue scraper twice a day for a week reduces the impact of Mutans streptococci and Lactobacilli bacteria in the mouth. These types of bacteria are known to cause bad breath and tooth decay. Some studies estimate that 80 to 90% of bad breath cases are caused by deposits, bacteria and dead cells on the tongue.
• Improving the sense of taste: a well-scraped tongue would allow to distinguish between different tastes, such as bitter, sweet, salty or sour.
• Boost the immune system: scraping prevents toxins from being reabsorbed by the body. So it's an important activity if you're sick, because there are a lot of deposits that build up on your tongue when you cough or sneeze. Here is a complete guide on how to boost your immune system
• Improve the appearance of the tongue: regular deposits can build up on the tongue and cover it with a white coating, the white paste. Some natural and antibacterial mouthwashes, combined with the use of a tongue scraper, can improve the feeling of freshness in the mouth.

Instructions for use

The first step is to choose the right tool, made of copper, plastic or stainless steel.

To complete the scraping process, follow these steps :

1. Stand in front of your mirror with your mouth open and stick out your tongue;
2. Gently place the tongue scraper on the back of your tongue;
3. If you are afraid of vomiting, you can start in the middle;
4. Apply it gently and gradually, without sudden movements. You have to find the right balance to avoid injury while being effective. Operate from the back to the tip;
5. Use a cloth to remove debris from the tongue scraper;
6. Repeat after each pass until you have scraped the entire tongue to avoid poor oral hygiene and to remove any bacteria present;
7. Clean with warm water and soap, dry and keep in a dry place.

Which tongue scraper to buy?

A tongue scraper is made of plastic or different metals (copper for example). It all depends on your personal preference.

Metal ones are made to last longer and can be washed in the dishwasher. Plastics are obviously less expensive, but require more regular replacement. Most of them cost less than 10 Euros.

Find below 2 products that have caught our attention

• Copper tongue scraper, antiseptic properties, inspired by ayurvedic medicine

• Tongue cleaner, ayurvedic antibacterial cleaner for good oral hygiene

Other ways to improve your dental health

You can maintain good dental health by:

• Brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day, and do it for at least two minutes
• Floss at least once a day to get the debris stuck between your teeth. This debris is a real buffet for the bacteria in your mouth.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stimulate salivation and reduce the risk of dry mouth, a common cause of bad breath
• Avoid tobacco, do not smoke, as it accumulates debris on the tongue

After explaining how to use the tongue scraper, follow these instructions to maintain good dental hygiene.