If you’ve watched enough #selfcare routines on TikTok, you have probably seen someone incorporating a tongue scraper into their oral hygiene tools. Designed to clean the surface of the tongue by removing bacteria, food debris, dead cells, and other particles that can accumulate, tongue scrapers have gained popularity in recent years, driven not only by the growing trend of self-care routines, but a variety of other factors. These include:
- Greater Focus on Holistic Health: There's been a surge in interest in holistic and preventive health practices, including better oral hygiene. Tongue scraping, often recommended in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, has been embraced by those looking for natural ways to improve health.
- Increased Awareness of Oral Hygiene: As people become more aware of the impact of oral health on overall health, there’s been a push to adopt more comprehensive oral care routines. Tongue scraping is seen as a simple, effective addition that enhances dental care beyond brushing and flossing.
- Product Availability and Variety: The market now offers a wide range of tongue scrapers in different materials (stainless steel, plastic, copper), designs, and price points, making them more accessible to a broader audience.
Benefits
- Reduces Bacteria and Bad Breath: The tongue harbors bacteria that contribute to bad breath (halitosis). By scraping the tongue, you reduce the number of bacteria, which can lead to fresher breath.
- Improves Oral Hygiene: Regular tongue scraping helps improve overall oral hygiene by reducing the buildup of biofilm on the tongue, which can contribute to dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
- Enhances Taste Sensation: Cleaning the tongue can improve your sense of taste. By removing buildup, you allow your taste buds to function more effectively.
- Promotes a Cleaner Mouth: A clean tongue can make your mouth feel fresher, contributing to a more pleasant overall sensation in your oral hygiene routine.
Using a tongue scraper is a quick and easy addition to daily oral care routines, complementing brushing and flossing for optimal mouth cleanliness. Talk to your dentist to get recommendations on specific types of scrapers based on your needs.