Oral hygiene is not limited to teeth. The tongue is one of the most important areas that we must take care of and clean every day, since it accumulates bacteria and food residues that can cause bad breath and other problems. Learning how to brush your tongue properly is key to keeping your mouth healthy and fresh. From our dental clinic in Malaga and Torremolinos, we know that many people do not brush their tongue after brushing their teeth, so this article today we want to talk in depth about the proper method and the benefits it brings.
Why is it important to brush your tongue?
The tongue acts as a magnet for bacteria and food scraps. Its rough surface facilitates the accumulation of plaque, which not only generates bad breath but can also contribute to oral diseases such as caries and gingivitis. In addition, a clean tongue improves your sense of taste, allowing you to enjoy food better. Many people don’t include tongue brushing in their daily routine, but it is a fundamental step to complete oral hygiene. If you’re wondering how to brush your tongue effectively, read on to find out the correct method and some practical tips.
How often should you brush your tongue?
Like brushing your teeth, the tongue should be cleaned at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and at night. If you notice a whitish or yellowish coating on the surface of your tongue, it is a sign that you need to pay more attention to this area. Maintaining a regular routine not only ensures better hygiene, but also prevents persistent bad breath.
Do I need a special type of brush to brush the tongue?
A special brush is not necessarily required to clean the tongue, although using specially designed tools can make the task more efficient. A toothbrush with soft bristles is enough to remove bacteria and debris from the surface of the tongue.
Steps to effectively brush the tongue
Effectively brushing your tongue is essential to maintain complete oral hygiene and prevent problems such as bad breath and bacterial build-up.
- Rinse your mouth before you start: before brushing the tongue, rinse with water to remove large food debris and prepare the surface for more effective cleaning.
- Choose the right tool: use a soft-bristled toothbrush or lingual cleaner. These tools are designed to reach all areas of the tongue without causing discomfort.
- Start from the back: place the brush or cleaner at the base of your tongue and make gentle forward movements. Be sure not to put too much pressure on the skin to avoid irritation.
- Clean the sides of the tongue: do not forget to pass through the sides of the tongue, where food and bacteria also accumulate. Make firm but delicate movements.
- Rinse and disinfect: finish by rinsing your mouth with water or an antibacterial mouthwash to remove any residue. If you used a lingual cleaner, clean it well for the next use.
Additional care for a healthy tongue
In addition to knowing how to brush your tongue, it is important to maintain complete oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth, flossing and mouthwashes, as well as regular visits to the dentist for professional check-ups and cleanings. If you experience tongue discomfort or changes in your appearance, consult a specialist for a proper diagnosis.
At Clínica Dental Gross Dentistas, we are experts in comprehensive oral care. Our team of professionals can help you improve your hygiene routine, resolve any questions about how to brush your tongue and ensure you enjoy optimal oral health. Contact us for more information!
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.