What is Tongue Scraping?

Tongue scraping and tongue brushing have been practiced for centuries around the world. But what exactly is tongue scraping and is it the most effective way to clean our tongue?

Tongue scraping involves using a small tool to gently remove the coating on your tongue. This coating, often a whitish gray layer of debris and microorganisms, can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues.

While tongue scraping may not remove all the bacteria on your tongue, it can help reduce the buildup of debris and microorganisms, potentially improving your oral hygiene.

Tongue scraping tool

Coating on the tongue

The Link Between Tongue Scraping and Bad Breath

One of the main benefits of tongue scraping is its potential to combat bad breath. The putrefaction of debris on the tongue can lead to the creation of volatile sulfur compounds, which contribute to bad breath.

Studies have shown that tongue scraping can help reduce the severity of halitosis symptoms. By removing the coating on the tongue, tongue scraping may help eliminate the source of bad breath.

While other factors, such as diet and oral hygiene, also play a role in bad breath, incorporating tongue scraping into your oral care routine may be beneficial.

Tongue coating

Bacteria on the tongue

The Impact on Plaque and Gingivitis

When it comes to plaque and gingivitis, the research on the effectiveness of tongue scraping is mixed.

Some studies suggest that tongue scraping may help reduce bleeding gums and improve gum health. However, other studies have not found a significant difference in plaque accumulation or gum inflammation between those who scrape their tongues and those who don't.

While tongue scraping may not directly impact plaque and gingivitis, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing, is still crucial for overall oral health.

Plaque on teeth

Gum inflammation