Does Tongue Scraping Really Work?

Tongue scraping is making waves as a wellness trend, with proponents claiming it can improve everything from your breath to your overall health. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of tongue scraping, how it compares to brushing your tongue, and whether it deserves a spot in your oral hygiene routine.

What Is Tongue Scraping?

Tongue scraping involves using a plastic or metal tool to remove bacteria, food particles, and debris from the surface of your tongue. The process is simple and painless, and advocates say it provides a deeper clean than brushing alone.

Benefits of Tongue Scraping

1. Fresher Breath
Bad breath often stems from bacteria and food particles trapped in the crevices of your tongue. Tongue scraping can help remove these odor-causing elements more effectively than brushing alone.

Research supports this benefit. A 2006 study in General Dentistry found that tongue scraping temporarily reduces bad breath. More recent findings published in December 2021 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health confirm that mechanically cleaning your tongue whether by scraping or brushing can significantly freshen breath.

2. Improved Oral Health
Regular tongue scraping can help reduce:

• White tongue: Caused by bacteria, food particles, and poor oral hygiene, this film can be minimized with consistent tongue cleaning.

• Plaque buildup: Scraping removes bacteria that contribute to plaque, which may lower the risk of cavities and gum disease.

A 2013 study in the International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry suggests that both tongue scraping and brushing are effective at reducing bacteria and plaque, making either method a helpful addition to your oral care routine.

3. Potential Systemic Health Benefits
While there’s no conclusive evidence that tongue scraping directly improves overall health, maintaining good oral hygiene is known to reduce the risk of systemic issues. Poor oral health has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, pneumonia, and diabetes. Though tongue scraping alone isn’t a magic bullet, it can complement a comprehensive oral care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.

Is Tongue Scraping Better Than Brushing?

The short answer: Not necessarily. Research suggests that brushing your tongue can provide similar benefits to scraping. However, some experts believe that tongue scrapers may be better at reaching the crevices of your tongue, making them slightly more effective for reducing bad breath.

How to Scrape Your Tongue

If you’re interested in trying tongue scraping, follow these simple steps:

• Brush and Floss First: Tongue scraping is most effective as the final step in your oral care routine.

• Position the Scraper: Stick out your tongue and place the scraper at the back of your tongue.

• Scrape Gently: Pull the scraper from back to front using light pressure. Repeat 1–2 times for a thorough clean.

• Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth and the scraper after each pass.

• Store Your Scraper: Clean your scraper and allow it to air-dry. Replace it every three months.

Pro Tip: If tongue scraping feels uncomfortable, you might be pressing too hard. The process should be gentle and pain-free.

Dentist-Recommended Tongue Scrapers

If you’re ready to invest in a tongue scraper, here are two highly recommended options:

• Orabrush Tongue Scraper: Made from flexible plastic, this scraper is gentle and easy to use.

• DrTung’s Stainless Steel Tongue Cleaner: Durable and effective, this metal scraper is a popular choice for those who prefer a more eco-friendly option.

The Bottom Line

Tongue scraping isn’t a must-have, but it can be a helpful addition to your oral care routine if you’re looking for extra freshness. Whether you opt to scrape or stick with tongue brushing, the key to oral health lies in consistent habits: brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly.

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