Daily tongue cleaning combats bad breath

A medical report indicates that while most people regularly brush their teeth, floss, and use mouthwash, they overlook a crucial aspect of oral health: the tongue.

Catriss Austin, a cosmetic dentist and host of the “Let’s Talk Smiles” program, stated in an article published in Parade magazine that cleaning the tongue is “absolutely essential.” She explained that the tongue’s surface is not smooth but is covered with tiny papillae that trap bacteria, food debris, and dead cells, forming a biofilm that brushing alone cannot remove.

For her part, Dr. Amber Bonag, a dentist and clinical director at DentaQuest, noted that this biofilm can contribute to bad breath and gum inflammation over time. She added that tongue cleaning benefits overall oral health by reducing odor, promoting gum health, and improving the sense of taste. Despite these benefits, a study involving more than 1,000 participants revealed that only about 18 percent clean their tongues daily, while roughly one-third do so only occasionally.

Austin emphasized that most bad breath originates from the tongue rather than the teeth, pointing out that tongue scraping removes the sulfur-producing bacteria responsible for this odor.

Key recommendations include:

• Use a dedicated tongue scraper or a soft-bristled toothbrush once daily, preferably in the morning immediately after brushing and flossing.

• Avoid excessive scraping force or overdoing it, as this may cause irritation or damage. Exercise caution if you have oral candidiasis, gum inflammation, or open sores.

• Extend the tongue and place the scraper as far back as possible without triggering the gag reflex, then pull it forward with light, even pressure. Repeat the motion two to three times, rinsing the tool between each pass.

Austin clarified that tongue cleaning does not eliminate all bacteria; its effect is limited to removing excess harmful bacteria that thrive in low-oxygen environments and cause odor and inflammation. The natural biofilm regenerates relatively quickly. Both dentists advised individuals experiencing persistent bad breath or dry mouth to clean their tongues twice daily and to consult a dentist for a comprehensive oral care plan if necessary.