Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of good oral health but did you know you should also clean your tongue? Your Naples dentist will advise you to brush your tongue since it harbors over 20 billion bacteria! If you skip cleaning your tongue, you’ll still be at risk of plaque buildup, cavity formation, and tooth decay.
Your tongue is covered with tiny bumps called papillae. Bacteria tend to hide in your papillae. When they accumulate, they can cause tooth decay and bad breath. The best way to remove them from your tongue is through manual brushing.
Why Should You Brush Your Tongue?
Prevention of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Even if you are careful to brush all surfaces of your teeth to prevent tooth decay, if you skip your tongue, you’ll still be at risk. Bacteria hiding on your tongue can travel to your teeth and gums, causing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Say Goodbye to Bad Breath
Do you often wonder why you still have bad breath even if you brush and floss your teeth daily? Research shows that oral bacteria on your tongue can result in halitosis or bad breath. If you’re embarrassed by your bad breath, make an effort to clean your tongue thoroughly.
Removing Bacteria
Unfortunately, you can’t remove bacteria by gargling or rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash because they can stubbornly cling to your tongue.
How Can You Clean Your Tongue?
You don’t have to buy special tools to clean your tongue. The toothbrush you use for your teeth will suffice. However, make sure to choose one that has soft bristles. For an effective clean, use back-and-forth and side-to-side strokes. Some patients prefer to use specialized tongue scrapers. These are readily available in local drugstores.
Need More Tips from Your Naples Dentist?
If you want to know more about tongue cleaning, feel free to ask us. At Gulfside Dental, we have an amazing team that’s knowledgeable to accommodate all your questions and concerns regarding oral health. Contact us today to book an appointment.