Yes, you should brush your tongue. Cleaning your tongue is a crucial part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Ignoring your tongue can lead to bad breath and other oral health problems.
Why Brush Your Tongue?
- Reduces Bacteria: Your tongue harbors numerous bacteria that contribute to bad breath (halitosis) and other oral health issues. Brushing or scraping your tongue helps remove this bacteria, significantly reducing their numbers. [Source: Colgate, Healthline, various dental websites]
- Improved Oral Health: A clean tongue contributes to overall better oral health. Regular tongue cleaning, combined with brushing and flossing, helps prevent various oral diseases and keeps your mouth healthier. [Source: MD Perio, Olney Dental Center, various dental websites]
- Fresher Breath: One of the most noticeable benefits is fresher breath. By eliminating bacteria and food particles from your tongue, you drastically improve your breath's freshness. [Source: Colgate, various dental websites]
How to Brush Your Tongue
- Frequency: Brush your tongue twice a day, ideally after each toothbrushing. [Source: Various dental websites]
- Technique: Use gentle back-and-forth strokes with your toothbrush. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent damage. You can also use a tongue scraper for more effective cleaning. [Source: Dr. Emma Wu And Associates, Reddit]
- Duration: Spend about 10-20 seconds brushing your tongue. [Source: Willow Pass Dental Care]
Potential Concerns
While generally beneficial, some research suggests that aggressive tongue brushing might negatively impact the oral microbiome. [Source: UCLA Health] Gentle brushing is key to reaping the benefits without potential harm.
Conclusion
Regular tongue brushing is a simple yet highly effective way to improve your oral health and breath. Remember to use a gentle approach and incorporate it into your daily routine.
