10-07-2023
Reasons To Clean Your Tongue Daily

When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing are common practices. However, one crucial step is often overlooked: cleaning the tongue. The tongue is home to bacteria, food debris, and dead cells that can lead to bad breath, oral health issues, and even systemic health problems.

  • Banish Bad Breath: Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be caused by bacteria and food particles remaining on the surface of the tongue. These substances release volatile sulphur compounds that lead to an unpleasant odour. By cleaning your tongue every day, you can significantly reduce bad breath and make your mouth feel fresher.
  • Reduce Bacterial Growth: The surface of the tongue provides habitat for various bacteria, including harmful ones. These bacteria can contribute to plaque build-up, tooth decay and gum disease. By cleaning your tongue, you remove bacteria and reduce the risk of oral health problems.
  • Improving Taste: A coated tongue can affect your ability to taste and enjoy food. By removing the deposits on your tongue, you can improve your taste perception and fully enjoy the flavours of your meals.
  • Preventing Plaque Buildup: Plaque buildup on the tongue can lead to the formation of biofilms, which are communities of bacteria that adhere to the surface. These biofilms can lead to oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Regular tongue cleaning helps prevent plaque and biofilm buildup.
  • Improving Overall Oral Hygiene: Cleaning your tongue is an essential part of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine. It complements brushing and flossing by keeping your entire mouth clean and free of bacteria and debris. A clean tongue promotes overall oral health and reduces the risk of dental problems.
  • Boosting Immune Function: The surface of the tongue can harbor pathogens that can weaken your immune system. By removing the bacteria and toxins through tongue cleaning, you support your body's natural defense mechanisms and reduce the risk of infection.
  • Improving Digestion: The tongue plays a crucial role in the early stages of digestion by helping to break down food and mix it with saliva. A clean tongue improves the efficiency of this process and contributes to better digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Supporting Systemic: Health Poor oral hygiene and the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth are linked to various systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections and diabetes. By cleaning your tongue, you reduce the bacterial load in your mouth and potentially reduce your risk of these health problems.

So how can you effectively clean your tongue?

Start with a tongue scraper or toothbrush with a tongue cleaner on the back. Gently scrape or brush your tongue from back to front to remove dirt and bacteria. Then rinse your mouth thoroughly. As part of your oral hygiene routine, make it a habit to clean your tongue every day.

In summary, cleaning your tongue daily is a crucial step in maintaining optimal oral health. The tongue is home to bacteria, food debris, and dead cells that can lead to bad breath, plaque buildup, and oral health problems. By incorporating tongue cleaning into your daily routine, you can eliminate bad breath, reduce bacterial growth, and improve overall oral hygiene. Remember: A healthy tongue goes beyond a bright smile—it contributes to your overall well-being and systemic health. So don't forget to give your tongue the attention it deserves for a healthier mouth and fresher breath.

Doctor
Dr. Praveen Kumar
Associate Director
Department of Dental Surgery
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