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3 min

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Blog

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Dr. Praveen Kumar

How to brush your tongue (and why you should!)

We all know the importance of brushing our teeth for maintaining good oral hygiene, but there's another crucial step that often gets overlooked – brushing your tongue. While it may seem like a small detail in your oral care routine, brushing your tongue can contribute significantly to overall mouth health. In this blog post, we'll explore why you should include tongue brushing in your daily routine and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively.

Why Brush Your Tongue?

  1. Bacterial Buildup: The surface of your tongue is a prime breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria can lead to bad breath, and if left unchecked, they may contribute to more severe oral health issues.

  2. Improved Breath: One of the most immediate benefits of tongue brushing is fresher breath. By removing bacteria and leftover food particles from your tongue, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of bad breath.

  3. Preventing Plaque Formation: Just like your teeth, your tongue can develop a layer of plaque over time. This can contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

  4. Enhanced Taste Sensation: A clean tongue allows your taste buds to function at their best. You may find that your sense of taste improves when you regularly brush your tongue.

Step-by-Step Guide to Brushing Your Tongue:

  1. Choose the Right Tool:

    • Use a tongue scraper or a toothbrush with a tongue cleaner on the back. These tools are designed to remove bacteria and debris effectively.
  2. Rinse Your Mouth:

    • Begin by rinsing your mouth with water. This helps to loosen any particles on your tongue and makes it easier to clean.
  3. Apply Toothpaste:

    • Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the bristles of your toothbrush or directly onto your tongue scraper. Make sure to use a toothpaste with antibacterial properties for added benefits.
  4. Brush from Back to Front:

    • Start at the back of your tongue and gently brush or scrape towards the front. Use light pressure to avoid causing any discomfort or irritation.
  5. Clean the Tool:

    • Rinse your toothbrush or tongue scraper thoroughly after each pass to remove accumulated debris.
  6. Repeat if Necessary:

    • Depending on the amount of buildup on your tongue, you may need to repeat the process a few times to ensure thorough cleaning.
  7. Rinse Again:

    • After brushing your tongue, rinse your mouth again with water to remove any remaining toothpaste or debris.