Should I Be Using a Tongue Scraper? | Dentist in Glen Burnie

Cosmetic Dentist in Glen Burnie, MD

best dentist in 21061

In addition to brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing at least once, it is also important to take good care of your tongue. Bacteria can build up on your tongue throughout the day. For some patients, our Glen Burnie dentist agrees that using a tongue scraper can be the best solution for a cleaner, healthier tongue. 

Should You Be Using One? 

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) found scraping your tongue results in a noticeable decrease in the sulfur compounds which can lead to bad breath. According to a study in the Journal of Periodontology, tongue scrapers reduced these compounds by 75%, while using a standard toothbrush only reduced 45% of sulfur compounds. Choose a method that works best for your mouth, but make sure you are taking care of your tongue. 

What Do They Do? 

While they may help alleviate bad breath, scraper’s main function is to clean off debris and bacteria from your tongue. Your toothbrush is designed to effectively clean teeth, but the surface of your tongue is very different from that of your teeth. A tongue scraper may provide a more thorough cleaning for your tongue. 

How Do I Use One? 

Start by washing out your mouth. When you are ready, clean your tongue, place the scraper in the back of your mouth, and gently pull it forward. Make sure you are scraping all areas of your tongue, but do not push so far back that you gag. You will want to rinse your mouth after you are done. Be sure to clean the scraper when you are finished. 

While you might not be used to cleaning your tongue, it can be an effective solution for bad breath and bacteria caused by food. At your next appointment, ask about other ways of keeping your tongue clean and your mouth healthy. Keeping up with your daily oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing is crucial to maintaining your oral health and preventing unhealthy bacteria. 

For more tips on a healthy mouth or to schedule your next visit to our dental office in Glen Burnie, MD, please contact us. We look forward to seeing you.

Glen Park Family Dentistry
Phone: (410) 761-1100
633 Greenway Rd. SE
Glen Burnie, MD 21061

“My passion is in making people feel at home when they come to my office. Sure, you may have had bad experiences in the past, or you might be worried about something that’s going on right now, but we are here to help you. Let’s talk about any concerns you might have, use the latest and greatest in technology to diagnose and explain, and then let’s make a plan that fits your goals.

I’m not here just to fix a cavity or pull that achy tooth - I’m here to make your oral health a part of your overall health, and make sure you are smiling your best smile and living your best life.”

- Dr. Christopher Sanginiti

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Office Hours

Monday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tuesday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday:10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday:8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday:8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed

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