You probably already know that brushing and flossing your teeth regularly are critical components of a complete oral hygiene routine. But did you know that brushing your tongue can be just as important? The rough texture of the tongue muscle makes it a perfect environment for bacteria to flourish, leading to tooth damage and bad breath.
To prevent tooth decay, halitosis and other progressive dental issues, make tongue brushing a regular part of your oral hygiene routine using the steps below.
How to clean your tongue
The ideal time to brush your tongue is immediately after thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Although it is important to clean the entire surface of your tongue, it’s vital that you focus on the rear area nearest your throat, as it is less prone to contact with foods and liquids that help keep the front clean.
Begin by putting a small amount of toothpaste on your brush, then scrub the back of the tongue using both side-to-side and front-to-back motions. You should definitely feel the pressure of your toothbrush against your tongue, but stop or reduce pressure if it becomes painful.
If you don’t want to use your toothbrush to clean your tongue, find it difficult to get your tongue clean using a toothbrush or simply want to take your oral hygiene to the next level, you can also consider purchasing a tongue scraper for added cleanliness.
How often to clean your tongue
Brushing or scraping your tongue should be just as frequent as brushing your teeth. Twice a day is the recommended frequency for both brushing your tongue and for brushing your teeth. Traditionally, cleaning your tongue and teeth occurs each morning and evening; however, if your tongue begins to feel dry or you develop a bad taste in your mouth, it may be a sign you should add a midday tongue cleaning to your regimen.
If you’re concerned about the health and cleanliness of your tongue, it’s never a bad idea to ask your dentist about it — and if you’re looking for a dentist in the Jacksonville, FL area, look no further! With convenient locations in Jacksonville, St. Johns and St. Augustine, Harbour Dental Care is the top choice for family-friendly, top-quality dental care in northeast Florida. Click here to schedule your visit today and discover why we are the top-rated dentist in Jacksonville!
