TONGUES are remarkable engineering wonders. They help us nourish ourselves and clean our teeth. They’re a vital part of our oral and whole body health. How do we keep them clean and healthy?
Brush your tongue daily
Your tongue hosts up to 10,000 taste buds. It also harbors billions of bacterium. That oral bacteria can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Brushing our teeth isn’t enough. We should be gently brushing our tongues every day while we’re in there!
Tongue scrapers can be helpful too
Many patients find that tongue scrapers are more effective for them than simply brushing their tongues with their toothbrush. This can be really helpful in fighting bad breath too. More details in this short video by logging on to www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=YLMuFQj6wyQ.
Tongue scrapers can reduce the presence of volatile sulfur compounds significantly (caused when amino acids and bacteria interact). Tongue scrapers can also help reduce build-up in the back of your throat caused by a sinus infections or allergies. Just be gentle when you scrape.
The benefits of keeping your tongue clean
• Some people believe that by reducing the amount of bacteria we swallow in our saliva all the time, we can stay healthier.
• A cleaner tongue can actually make food taste better!
• When your tongue is cleaner, your entire mouth —- including teeth and gums—stays cleaner.
• It’s a great line of defense against bacteria-caused halitosis.
Give your tongue the respect it deserves
We love being your complete oral health partner. Dental health not only requires caring for your teeth, but caring for your gums and tongue as well. If you have questions, please let us know.
Thanks for your trust in our practice.
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If you have questions, pls call Dr. Valerie de Leon at (650) 697–9000 or visit our website at www.millbraesmiles.com. She is with Millbrae Smile Center located at 15 El Camino Real, Millbrae 94030. She is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of Laser Dentistry, ADA, CDA and SMCDS. Please call for a free consultation.