Most people brush their teeth twice a day and never think about their tongue. Yet the tongue's surface is covered in tiny folds and projections that trap bacteria, dead cells and food particles. This coating is one of the main sources of bad breath and can even dull your sense of taste. Adding tongue cleaning to your routine takes less than a minute and makes a noticeable difference.
The top of the tongue is rough, covered in papillae that create a large surface area. Bacteria thrive in these grooves, especially toward the back of the tongue where saliva flow is lower. As they break down proteins, they release sulphur compounds that cause unpleasant odours. Dry mouth, dehydration, smoking and breathing through the mouth all make the coating worse.
Both can work, but a tongue scraper is generally more effective at removing the coating because it lifts debris off in a single sweep, whereas brushing can push some bacteria around. Scrapers made of plastic or stainless steel are inexpensive and easy to clean. Some toothbrushes have a textured tongue cleaner on the back of the head, which is a good alternative.
Stick your tongue out, place the scraper as far back as is comfortable, and draw it forward gently with light pressure. Rinse the scraper and repeat several times, covering the centre and sides. Do this once a day, ideally in the morning. If you have a strong gag reflex, start further forward and breathe through your nose; it becomes easier with practice.
A thin, pale coating is normal. A thick white coating may be due to dehydration, poor hygiene or sometimes a fungal infection. A yellowish coating can be linked to smoking or coffee. Patches that do not wipe away, sore red areas, or any lump or ulcer that lasts more than two weeks should be checked by a dentist promptly.
Combining tongue cleaning with brushing, interdental cleaning and good hydration tackles most everyday bad breath. Mouthwash can help temporarily, but it does not replace mechanical cleaning. If bad breath persists despite a good routine, it may signal gum disease, a decaying tooth or a medical issue, so a check-up is worthwhile.
Once a day is enough for most people, usually in the morning when the coating is heaviest.
Not when done gently. Use light pressure and stop if it causes pain or bleeding.
A persistent white coating may be due to dehydration, mouth breathing or an infection such as oral thrush. If it does not improve, see a dentist.
Book a check-up if you are concerned about bad breath or tongue changes. Learn more about teeth cleaning in Al Ain.
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