Importance of Tongue Cleaning in Oral Health

From a young age, we’re all taught to brush our teeth twice daily. However, experts highlight that there’s an often-overlooked aspect of oral hygiene.

“Cleaning your tongue is essential,” says Dr. Maria Figueroa, a dentist and program director at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. “It’s just as crucial as taking care of your teeth.”

Adding this extra step to your daily routine might feel a bit overwhelming. “Honestly, just getting people to floss is challenging,” admits Dr. Thomas Salinas, a prosthodontist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. But that doesn’t mean we should ignore this important habit.

Salinas regards tongue cleaning as “a reasonable and beneficial practice.” He insists that we should be brushing, flossing, and cleaning our tongues.

Benefits of Cleaning the Tongue

Brushing effectively targets teeth, while flossing deals with those hard-to-reach spots in between. If done properly, both practices significantly lower the chances of cavities and gum disease by removing the biofilm that gathers around and on our teeth.

Biofilm consists of bacteria, viruses, and food particles, explains Robert Shields, an oral microbiologist and assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.

This biofilm also forms on the tongue itself. The bacteria found there are different from those on our teeth, as they adapt to either the hard enamel of the teeth or the warmer environment of the tongue, according to Shields.

The surface of the tongue is covered in tiny bumps called papillae, which assist in speaking, chewing, and may even influence our food preferences. The biofilm can collect around these structures and potentially lead to health issues, including gum disease, explains Dr. Luana Dias, a dentist-scientist.

There’s some evidence—though more research is needed—that this buildup could be linked to broader health problems, like diabetes and heart disease.

Additionally, an excess of bacteria can contribute to bad breath. When sulfur-producing bacteria break down, they can release compounds that cause unpleasant odors. Signs of this may include a white coating on the tongue and a persistent metallic taste. Gentle cleaning of the tongue could help mitigate these issues.

Using a tongue scraper is generally preferable to a toothbrush, Salinas recommends. Mixing tools can lead to cross-contamination.

“A toothbrush can work, but a tongue scraper is more effective if you have one,” he notes.

The bristles on a toothbrush can be too rough on the tongue, Figueroa points out. Some individuals, whom she refers to as “super brushers,” end up creating scar tissue from overusing their brushes.

She suggests using a metal scraper, like those made from stainless steel or copper, over plastic versions, which can degrade and leave minute scratches. Copper is sometimes touted for its toxin-removing properties, though research backing this claim is lacking, adds Salinas.

Figueroa also endorses scrapers but appreciates toothbrushes that feature a rubber scraper on the reverse side for convenience.

How to Clean the Tongue

Integrating tongue cleaning into your daily routine, similar to washing your face, is recommended by Figueroa. She advises doing this twice a day, in the morning and at night, in conjunction with brushing and flossing.

However, Shields warns against over-cleaning. The impact of this practice on our oral microbiome is still a topic of debate. Some experts believe that cleaning might also remove beneficial bacteria. So, moderation is key here.

If bad breath is a concern, a mouthwash can be a useful adjunct to your routine. While it doesn’t eliminate bacteria, it does freshen breath. Just avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes, as these can disrupt the oral microbiome and harm oral cells.

When cleaning, extend your tongue and focus on the front. Most people, even those with a sensitive gag reflex, can manage this. Use a gentle raking motion across the surface.

A scraper will generally lift a thin layer of biofilm. Salinas advises using light pressure, noting that pushing too hard can inadvertently damage the tongue. Rinsing the scraper between uses is a good idea.

After cleaning, rinse your scraper and allow it to dry. This helps prevent bacterial buildup, Figueroa emphasizes.

While you’re at it, take a moment to check the sides and underside of your tongue for any irregularities that could signal oral health issues, including potential signs of oral cancer, says Salinas.

“If you notice anything unusual, definitely consult a professional,” he concludes. “That’s one of the most important tips.”