A tongue scraper is a specialized oral hygiene tool designed to clean the surface of the tongue, which is often overlooked in standard brushing and flossing. The tongue’s rough texture, made up of tiny projections called papillae, can trap food particles, dead cells, and bacteria. This accumulation forms a visible coating, and the bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), the primary cause of bad breath (halitosis). Removing this buildup reduces the bacterial load, leading to fresher breath and potentially enhancing the sense of taste.
Choosing the Right Scraper
Tongue scrapers are available in designs based on material and shape. The two most common materials are plastic and metal, including stainless steel and copper. Plastic scrapers are generally affordable and flexible, making them a gentler choice for those with a sensitive gag reflex. However, plastic is less durable, may be less effective at removing thick debris, and requires more frequent replacement than metal options.
Metal scrapers, particularly stainless steel, are durable, easy to clean, and offer a firm edge often more effective at clearing the surface in one sweep. Stainless steel is resistant to tarnish and lasts a long time. Copper is another metal option, favored for its natural antimicrobial properties, though it can tarnish. Shape also plays a role: U-shaped scrapers cover more area but require two hands, while T-shaped or looped scrapers can often be used with one hand.
Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Scraping
Before starting, rinse the mouth or the scraper with water to prepare the surface for cleaning. Begin by placing the scraper at the back of the tongue, as far back as is comfortable without triggering the gag reflex. If gagging is a concern, slowly introducing the scraper farther back over time can help the mouth adjust to the sensation.
Once positioned, apply gentle, firm pressure against the tongue’s surface. The pressure must be sufficient to collect residue but should never cause pain, irritation, or abrasion. Pull the scraper slowly and steadily in one continuous motion toward the tip of the tongue.
After each stroke, rinse the scraper under running water to wash away the accumulated debris. This prevents spreading the removed coating back onto the tongue during the next pass. Repeat the scraping and rinsing process a few times, covering the entire tongue surface, until no more residue is collected. Finally, rinse the mouth with water to clear any remaining particles.
Incorporating Scraping into Your Routine
Tongue scraping is recommended once or twice daily as a complement to brushing and flossing, not as a replacement. Many find that the morning is the best time to scrape, as it removes the accumulation of bacteria and dead cells that build up overnight. Scraping is most effective when done after brushing your teeth.
Consistency is more beneficial than excessive scraping; using the tool more than twice a day or with too much force can irritate the tongue. Proper maintenance of the tool is necessary to ensure hygiene after cleaning is complete. The scraper should be thoroughly washed with warm water and soap after each use to remove microbial residue. Metal scrapers can be sterilized with hot water, while plastic ones may be soaked in antibacterial mouthwash. The tool must then be dried and stored in a clean, dry area to prevent bacterial growth.