It wasn’t until Dr. Ashley, that I learned about tongue scraping, and now I swear I am learning more and more about tongue scraping everywhere…including many of my wellness podcasts. Oral health really is linked to overall health, and tongue scraping is a key component in oral health care. So, why did it took me 30 years to learn about it? I don’t know. But, since I’ve learned about it, it has turned into a birthday gift for my mom, a product for my girlfriends for our Favourite Things Gift Exchange, and even though you may be shaking your head saying, ‘You gave a tongue scraper as a GIFT?’…I can tell you it was well received! I know my mom has become an avid tongue scraper right there alongside me!! So, let’s learn about all things tongue scraping, with Dr. Ashley!
Along with flossing and brushing, cleaning your tongue is an important step in your oral hygiene routine. Your tongue is full of little bumps called papillae that allow you to taste and feel textures, but it can also harbour food particles and bacteria. So, we definitely want to clean it daily! And research has found that using a tongue scraper can remove 30% more bacteria versus brushing your tongue.
Why Clean Your Tongue?
- It removes bacteria and buildup to help improve overall health
- Can improve sense of taste
- Can help desensitize gag reflux
- Improves appearance of tongue
- With consistency, it can help reduce bad breath
Studies show that cleaning your tongue regularly can reduce unwanted mouth bacteria that can cause bad breath, plaque buildup, and other oral health conditions. While using your toothbrush to clean your tongue can work, research has found that tongue scrapers clean your tongue 30% more effectively than your toothbrush can. In summary, using a tongue scraper at least once a day can help keep your breath smelling fresh and can reduce the overall bacteria in your mouth.
How to Use a Tongue Scraper
- Floss and brush first. Rinse scraper with hot water.
- Stick your tongue out and place scraper as far back as you comfortably can.
- With firm, but gentle pressure, scrape the surface of your tongue in one long stroke forward. [It should not hurt].
- Rinse scraper under water between each stroke.
- Repeat until tongue looks and feels clean. Usually 5-10 strokes.
- Clean with hot water. Allow to air dry.
If you want a visual, check out this YouTube video or this IG video!
Ashley’s Tongue Scraper Reviews:
GUM Dual Action Tongue Cleaner and Brush $4.50 CAD {Dr. Ashley uses]
Pros:
- Cleans effectively
- Has a brush on the other side, so you can do both brushing and scraping
- Cost effective
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- It’s made of plastic
Difcuy Baby Child Tongue Cleaner $4.29 CAD [Dr. Ashley’s Daughter Uses]
Pros:
- Cute design
- Silicone gentle on little tongues
- Easy to clean
- Cost effective
- Comes with a case
Cons:
- Hard to find in stores
Orabrush Tongue Cleaner $4.00 CAD
Pros:
- A mixture of micro bristles and scraping edges for a deep clean
- Cost effective
Cons:
- Made of plastic
Bast Tongue Scraper $8.64 CAD
Pros:
- Made of copper, which has anti-bacterial properties
- Eco-friendly, so will last indefinitely if cared for properly
Cons:
- A bit pricier
- Requires two hands to use
Dr. Tung’s Tongue Cleaner $14.99 CAD
Pros:
- Stainless steel tongue scraper, which can be more effective than plastic
- Comes with a travel case
- Comfortable, ergonomic handles to hold
- Eco-friendly, so will last indefinitely if cared for properly
Cons:
- More expensive
- Requires two hands
The tongue scraper I use is GuruNanda Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper (for $10 USD, you get a pack of 2 with a case!). I love it because it’s stainless steel, and as Dr. Ashley mentioned, you pay an upfront cost, but it lasts forever and is eco-friendly. With this one, I don’t need to change it every 3 months like you would a toothbrush, and it’s super easy to use and clean! Are you inspired to go out and get yourself a tongue scraper?! We hope so!