The back of a modern toothbrush head often features a curious design, usually a textured surface of rubberized silicone or small ridges. This specialized surface is a deliberate addition intended not for cleaning the teeth, but for maintaining the cleanliness of the soft tissues within the mouth. Understanding its use can significantly enhance an individual’s daily oral care routine.
The Purpose of the Textured Surface
This textured, non-bristle side is engineered as a soft tissue cleaner, often referred to as a tongue scraper or cheek cleaner. Its design features small, flexible nodules or ridges that are gentler than the main bristles. This feature is intended to physically dislodge and lift the accumulated layer of bacterial biofilm, food particles, and dead cells from the tongue and cheeks. The soft material allows for effective scraping without causing irritation to the delicate mucosal tissues.
Proper Technique for Soft Tissue Cleaning
To use the soft tissue cleaner effectively, gently extend the tongue and place the textured surface as far back as is comfortable. Apply only light pressure, as the goal is to sweep away debris, not to aggressively scrub the tissue. The motion should be a slow, steady sweep from the back of the tongue toward the tip, moving the accumulated debris forward to be expelled. After each pass, the brush head must be rinsed thoroughly under running water to remove the collected biofilm.
Repeat this sweeping action three to five times to cover the entire surface of the tongue effectively. Once the tongue is clean, the same gentle motion can be used to lightly clean the inside surfaces of the cheeks and the roof of the mouth. Keeping the pressure minimal is important to prevent triggering the gag reflex, which is often more sensitive in the back of the mouth. Incorporating this step for approximately 30 seconds after brushing and flossing addresses soft tissues alongside the teeth and gums.
The Role of Tongue and Cheek Cleaning in Oral Hygiene
Cleaning the soft tissues is a valuable part of a complete oral hygiene regimen because these surfaces harbor a significant portion of the mouth’s total bacterial population. The tongue, in particular, has tiny projections called papillae that easily trap debris and microorganisms. The accumulation of this biofilm is a primary cause of halitosis, commonly known as bad breath. Removing the film with the textured surface specifically targets the bacteria that produce foul-smelling volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs).
Regularly clearing this build-up leads to a reduction in the overall bacterial load within the oral cavity. This practice helps maintain a healthier oral microbiome, preventing the migration of microorganisms to the teeth and gums where they contribute to plaque formation and periodontal issues. Eliminating the coating of debris from the tongue’s surface can also sharpen the perception of different flavors, improving the sense of taste.