Dental Hygiene Tips: Tongue Scraping and Halitosis (Bad Breath)

What is tongue scraping for oral hygiene?

The term tongue scraping refers to the process of removing material that may accumulate on your tongue between the small bumps (taste buds) on the tongue’s surface.

What is the purpose of tongue scraping?

A primary reason that people engage in tongue scraping is to improve their overall oral hygiene. Using a scraper to remove the “gunk” from your tongue can help prevent or reduce gum problems and tooth decay and also decrease the possibility of halitosis, also known as bad breath.

What are tongue scrapers and how do they work?

There are various types of tongue scraper though the common tongue scraper consists of a simple piece of flexible, soft plastic which is bent into an arch and pulled over the tongue’s surface, usually two or three times as necessary to remove any debris or “gunk” that has built up on the tongue’s surface.

When is the best time to use a tongue scraper?

Typically the tongue is scraped before brushing the teeth.

What are some of the benefits of using a tongue scraper?

One of the benefits of tongue scraping is helping to eliminate bad breath, also known as halitosis. Smokers and those who have fungal growth (the condition known as “brown hairy tongue”) on their tongue will see a noticeable improvement after using a tongue scraper.

Is it necessary to use a tongue scraper if I already brush my teeth and also my tongue thoroughly twice each day?

Proper brushing and flossing goes a long way toward ensuring good dental hygiene and preventing dental problems. However, the additional practice of tongue scraping may also contribute to good oral health and prevent or eliminate halitosis (bad breath).

If you are unsure then talk to your dentist about things you can do to improve oral hygiene, and make sure to brush your teeth and floss properly, and keep up with your regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings. Proper dental hygiene will help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease which are primary causes of unpleasant breath.

Stuart Dentist Offers Range of Family Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry Services in Florida

Family Dentistry of Stuart is proud to serve the city of Stuart as well other Florida regions including Port St. Lucie, Port Salerno, Palm City, Jupiter and the greater Martin County area of Florida. Please give us a call for all of your dental needs.

Dentistry Services Offered by Family Dentistry of Stuart

Family and Cosmetic Dental Procedures – The Premier Stuart Dentist

Cleanings and Prevention Periodontal Disease Cosmetic Dentistry

Dentures and Partial Dentures Restorations Dental Implants

Root Canals Orthodontics (Invisalign)