Dentist in Homer Glen Says Brush Your Tongue, Too

Should you brush your tongue? It’s a common question — and the answer is a resounding yes. Even if you manage brush and floss your teeth as often as you should, you’re missing an important part of oral hygiene if you’re not brushing your tongue, too. This part of your mouth is a perfect environment for bacteria buildup, which can give you bad breath and also raise your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. If you want to ace your visits to your dentist in Homer Glen, make sure you’re cleaning your entire mouth when you brush… including your tongue.

Hitting Bacteria Where It Lives

Even though you can’t get cavities on this part of your mouth, the rough surface of your tongue makes it a perfect place for the buildup of harmful oral bacteria. When the acids from what you eat combine with the harmless bacteria that exists naturally in your mouth, “bad” bacteria quickly forms — and it loves to make a home on your teeth, around your gums, and, yes, on your tongue.

(Almost) No Substitute for the Brush

Many patients make the mistake of thinking that using a mouthrinse is enough to remove the bacteria that builds up around your taste buds and the surface of your tongue. We wish it were true — but to really get this soft part of your mouth clean, you need to take a brush to it. Tongue scrapers work, too, if you prefer that method. These are small, hard plastic devices that you can buy at the pharmacy. Just make sure you clean the scraper (or toss the disposable ones) after each use.

How to Clean Your Tongue

Now that you know how important it is to clean your tongue, let’s look at how to do it right.

• Clean in small circular motions, moving from side to side and back to front
• Be gentle — cleaning too aggressively can injure your tongue
• Brush (or scrape) the tongue every time you brush your teeth
• Rinse your mouth with water after cleaning your tongue

Oral Hygiene Is a Triad

Brushing your teeth (and your tongue) is only one aspect of proper oral hygiene. To make sure you’re doing your part to fight the common oral health hazards, make sure you are also flossing at least once daily and visiting your dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. When you do, we will look out for cavities, gum disease, and also check in on your teeth and see if there are any areas you could be cleaning better at home.

With that in mind, when was your last visit to the dentist? Book a visit before the holiday rush to start the New Year with a clean, healthy smile!

About the Author

Dr. Alan R. De Angelo is a general dentist providing comprehensive care for patients in and around Homer Glen, IL. To learn more about his services or to schedule an appointment for the same, you are invited to contact the office at 708-301-3111.