Clean your tongue

Brushing twice a day and flossing are great habits, but we also need to brush our tongue too once in a while to prevent bad breath. You can use use the bristles of your toothbrush or you can try a specialized brush with a built-in tongue cleaner on the back, like the Colgate 360 and others.

Tongue Brushing Techniques: The tongue harbors bacteria and food particles trapped under a thin layer of mucus. Remove this odor-causing buildup by using a small dab of toothpaste and carefully brushing the top of the tongue. Start by reaching to the back of the tongue, and then work toward the front. Make sure you brush the entire surface of the tongue using gentle pressure and finish by rinsing with water.

For a more thorough cleaning, use a tongue scraper, again, use gentle pressure. This tool is usually made of soft, flexible plastic and gently peels the thin mucus-based layer of debris from the tongue. Rinse the scraper under warm water after each swipe of the tongue.

How Often Should You Clean Your Tongue? If you can, each time you brush and floss your teeth finish your dental care routine with a tongue cleaning. Realistically, clean your tongue once every few days. If you have dry mouth or notice a foul taste in your mouth, try cleaning your tongue more often to improve this situation.
If you have any other questions, or you need to make an appointment, please visit us online at AlisoViejoDental.com or call or text us at 949-425-1447.