The Importance of Tongue Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene involves much more than just brushing your teeth. Your tongue is home to millions of bacteria, some of which can cause bad breath, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. Using a tongue cleaner should be an essential part of your daily oral care routine.
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What is a Tongue Cleaner?
A tongue cleaner is a tool designed specifically for cleaning the surface of the tongue. Tongue cleaners typically have a U-shaped handle with a scraper on one or both ends. The scrapers are made from plastic, metal, or a combination of materials. Tongue cleaners are used to remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the surface and pockets of the tongue.
Benefits of Using a Tongue Cleaner
- Removes bad breath-causing bacteria
- Freshens breath
- Reduces plaque buildup
- Decreases risk of gum disease
- Improves overall oral hygiene
Scraping the tongue reduces halitosis by getting rid of bacteria and leftover food particles that brushing alone often misses. Using a tongue cleaner also helps improve taste sensation.
| With Tongue Cleaning | Without Tongue Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Less bacteria on tongue | More bacteria on tongue |
| Reduced bad breath | Increased bad breath |
| Fewer toxins in mouth | More toxins left in mouth |
How to Properly Use a Tongue Cleaner
Using a tongue cleaner takes some getting used to, but is simple once you get the technique down:
- Use your tongue cleaner in the morning before eating or drinking anything.
- Start at the back of your tongue and gently scrape from back to front 3-5 times.
- Rinse the cleaner between each stroke.
- Cover all areas of your tongue, including the sides.
- Avoid scraping too aggressively to prevent gagging.
- Rinse your mouth with water when finished.
Be sure to clean your tongue cleaner after each use by washing it with soap and water. Replace plastic cleaners every 3 months or so. Sterilize metal tongue cleaners by boiling them for 5-10 minutes.
Tips for Effective Tongue Cleaning
- Gently scrape instead of vigorously brushing.
- Focus on rough, discolored areas.
- Rinse after each pass across the tongue.
- Try using a tongue cleaner with a suction cup for easier cleaning.
- Slowly work toward the back until the gag reflex isn't triggered.
With regular tongue cleaning, you'll notice fresher breath, a cleaner mouthfeel, and improved taste. Be patient as your gag reflex gets used to having the tongue scraper in your mouth. Don't forget to also floss and brush regularly for complete oral care.
What is a Tongue Cleaner?
A tongue cleaner is an oral hygiene tool designed specifically for cleaning the surface of the tongue. Tongue cleaners work to remove bacteria, food debris, dead cells, and toxins that build up on the tongue.
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Features of Tongue Cleaners
Tongue cleaners have the following features:
- A U-shaped handle with a scraper on one or both ends
- Scrapers made of plastic, metal, or a combination of materials
- Some have suction cups on the handle for better grip
- Sizes vary but average 6-9 inches in length
| Plastic | Metal |
|---|---|
| Less expensive | More expensive |
| Flexible | Firm |
| Replace more often | Last longer |
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Benefits of Using a Tongue Cleaner
Using a tongue cleaner provides the following benefits:
- Removes bad breath causing bacteria
- Reduces plaque buildup
- Freshens breath
- Decreases risk of gum disease
- Improves overall oral hygiene
Scraping the tongue can get rid of 50-90% more bacteria than brushing alone. This bacteria causes bad breath and tooth decay if left on the tongue.
Proper Use
To properly use a tongue cleaner:
- Gently scrape the tongue from back to front
- Apply light pressure and avoid vigorous brushing
- Focus on discolored areas
- Rinse after each pass across the tongue
With regular use, a tongue cleaner can significantly improve oral health and hygiene. Be sure to also continue regular brushing and flossing each day.
Benefits of Using a Tongue Cleaner
Using a tongue cleaner should be an essential part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Scraping the tongue with a tongue cleaner provides many health and hygiene benefits.
Removes Bad Breath Causing Bacteria
The surface of the tongue is a haven for odor causing bacteria. A tongue cleaner scrapes away these bacteria before they can cause bad breath. Studies show that cleaning the tongue reduces bad breath by up to 90%.
Freshens Breath
In addition to reducing bad breath, using a tongue cleaner freshens the breath by removing bacteria that cause odors. Thoroughly cleaning the tongue creates a cleaner, fresher mouthfeel.
Reduces Plaque Buildup
Plaque on the tongue provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. A tongue cleaner removes plaque and bacteria before they spread to other areas of the mouth, reducing plaque buildup on teeth.
Decreases Risk of Gum Disease
Bacteria on the tongue can migrate to the gums and irritate them, increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Removing tongue bacteria minimizes this risk.
Improves Overall Oral Hygiene
| With Tongue Cleaner | Without Tongue Cleaner |
|---|---|
| Less bacteria in mouth | More bacteria left in mouth |
| Reduced plaque on teeth | Buildup of plaque on teeth |
| Healthier gums | Increased risk of gum disease |
The bacteria-reducing action of a tongue cleaner improves overall oral hygiene. Used along with brushing and flossing, a cleaner mouth is achieved.
Improves Taste Sensations
By removing dead cells and bacteria on the tongue, a tongue cleaner enhances taste sensation. Food and drinks taste better.
A tongue cleaner is a simple tool that provides significant oral health benefits. Scraping the tongue daily removes bacteria, plaque, and dead cells for optimal oral hygiene.
How to Properly Use a Tongue Cleaner
Using a tongue cleaner is simple once you learn the proper technique. Follow these steps to correctly use a tongue cleaner for maximum oral health benefits:
Use First Thing in the Morning
Use your tongue cleaner first thing in the morning before drinking or eating anything. This removes bacteria and odors that accumulated overnight before they spread.
Start at the Back
Place the tongue cleaner as far back on your tongue as comfortable. Gently glide the scraper from back to front to remove bacteria toward the front of the mouth.
Cover All Areas
Slowly clean the entire surface of the tongue, including the center, sides, and as far back as you can reach. Angle the scraper to cover the sides and middle sections.
Focus on Discolored Areas
Look for white or yellow discolored areas which indicate a buildup of bacteria. Concentrate on scraping these harder to remove coatings.
Rinse Between Strokes
Remove and rinse away debris after each completed pass along the tongue. This prevents reintroducing bacteria scraped off the tongue.
Be Gentle
Avoid vigorous brushing or scraping which can damage the tongue tissue. Use light pressure and cover all areas gently.
How Many Strokes to Use
- Do 3-5 strokes in the very back
- 5-10 strokes on the middle section
- 3-5 strokes on the front
Adjust as needed based on your tongue size and comfort level.
Clean the Cleaner
After each use, rinse the tongue cleaner under hot water and scrub with a toothbrush. Sterilize metal cleaners by boiling.
Be Patient
It takes time for the gag reflex to get used to the tongue cleaner. Go slowly and only as far back as comfortable when starting out.
With proper technique, a tongue cleaner can improve oral health and hygiene. Don't forget to still brush and floss regularly as well.
Choosing the Right Tongue Cleaner
With the various tongue cleaner options available, it can be difficult to select the right one. Consider the following factors when choosing a tongue cleaner for your needs:
Material
Tongue cleaners come in plastic, metal, and combination materials:
- Plastic - Cheaper, flexible, and gentle on the tongue.
- Metal - More expensive but last longer. Stainless steel is recommended.
- Combination - Often a plastic handle with a metal scraper.
Design
| Loop Handle | Straight Handle |
|---|---|
| Easier to control angle | Easier to reach back of tongue |
| Plastic or metal | Typically plastic |
Size of Scraper
Length and thickness of the scraper affects cleaning power:
- Narrow scrapers for precision cleaning
- Wide scrapers cover more surface area
- Small size for travel, large for home use
Features
Added features to look for:
- Suction cups for better grip
- Anti-microbial or antibacterial properties
- Tongue massager on reverse side
- Travel case included
Bristled vs Smooth
Bristled scrapers are more abrasive while smooth scrapers are gentler.
Price
Tongue cleaners range from $1 for basic plastic models up to $15+ for fancier metal varieties.
Brand
Look for reputable brands of oral care products like Philips, Orabrush, Dr. Tung's, and DenTek.
Take your preferences for material, design, and features into account when selecting the ideal tongue cleaner for you. Proper use is key for the benefits, not necessarily the cost.
Types of Tongue Cleaners
Tongue cleaners come in a variety of materials including plastic, metal, and combination models. Each type has its own pros and cons.
Plastic Tongue Cleaners
Plastic tongue cleaners are the most common and affordable option. They have these features:
- Inexpensive - usually $1 to $3
- Flexible - comfortable on the tongue
- Variety of colors
- Need to replace more often
Plastic cleaners work well for occasional use. Replace every 2-3 months for best results.
Metal Tongue Cleaners
Metal tongue cleaners last longer but cost more. Features include:
- Stainless steel prevents rust
- Silver, copper, or gold tones
- Can last for years
- Stiff feel not for everyone
Sterilize metal cleaners regularly by boiling for 5-10 minutes.
Combination Cleaners
Combination tongue cleaners combine plastic and metal:
- Plastic handle with metal scraper
- Adjustable heads to switch scrapers
- Moderate price range $5 to $10
Combination provides comfort of plastic with durability of metal.
| Plastic | Metal | Combination |
|---|---|---|
| $$ | $$$ | $$ |
| Flexible | Firm | Mixed |
| Replace often | Long-lasting | Moderate |
Consider your preferences and budget when deciding between plastic, metal or combination tongue cleaners.
What is the Benefit of Amazon Prime When Buying Tongue Cleaners?
Amazon Prime provides a number of benefits when purchasing items like tongue cleaners. As an Amazon Prime member, you get fast free shipping, discounts, and other perks.
Free Two-Day Shipping
One of the biggest Prime benefits is free two-day shipping on eligible items. When you need to restock your tongue cleaner supplies, Prime ensures you get your order quickly without paying extra shipping fees.
This free fast shipping with Prime applies to all kinds of tongue cleaners - plastic, metal, travel sizes, packs, and more. As long as the product is eligible, it will arrive within 2 days at no cost.
Free One-Day Shipping
Prime members in certain areas can even get free same-day delivery on over 3 million items when placing an order in the morning. There's also free one-day shipping on many products.
Getting your tongue cleaner the very next day or same day with Prime is extremely convenient.
Access to Exclusive Deals
Amazon Prime members get special exclusive access to certain deals and discounts. This includes Prime-only pricing and savings on select tongue cleaners from top brands.
Taking advantage of these Prime member deals is a great way to save money on tongue cleaners and other oral hygiene supplies.
Try Before You Buy
The Prime Try Before You Buy program allows members to try products like tongue cleaners for a week before purchasing. You can test out different styles and brands risk-free.
This makes it easy to determine which tongue cleaner works best for you before committing to buying it.
Overall, an Amazon Prime membership provides numerous shipping, shopping, and pricing benefits for buying tongue cleaners online.
Dr Tungs Tongue Cleaner
Dr. Tung's Tongue Cleaner is a popular product in the "Tongue Cleaners" category. Here are some key features and benefits of this product:
Overall, Dr. Tung's Tongue Cleaner is a highly recommended product for those looking for an efficient and gentle way to clean their tongue and improve their oral hygiene.
How To Use Dr. Tung's Tongue Cleaner??
Here are the steps to use Dr. Tung's tongue cleaner:
- Hold the tongue cleaner with both hands, with the curved cleaning edge facing down.
- Place the curved cleaning edge at the back of your tongue.
- Gently scrape the surface of the tongue from back to front with light pressure.
- Rinse the tongue cleaner with water after each use.
- Clean the tongue cleaner regularly - every few weeks - by rubbing it with toothpaste (rather than a chemical cleaning agent) .
- Store the tongue cleaner in a dry place.
- Enjoy fresher breath, improved taste, and better oral hygiene.
