Why is it important to clean your tongue?
Most people are aware of the benefits of brushing their teeth and using dental floss and mouthwash, but you may not realise how important it is to clean your tongue.
The tongue is a breeding ground for bacteria, which collect on the tongue and at the back of the mouth to produce sulphur-based compounds. These compounds are a major contributor to bad breath, a problem that most people experience at some point in their lives. Cleaning the tongue can also help to reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay by decreasing the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
How should I clean my tongue?
You can clean your tongue using your toothbrush or a specialist tongue cleaner. We can offer advice and information about products and talk you through the tongue cleaning process, so please ask City of Leeds dentist or hygienist if you want to find out more.
The tongue cleaning process involves running the brush or tongue cleaner across the surface of the tongue to remove dead cells, food deposits and bacteria. Repeating the action will help to target areas that may have been missed during the first cleaning session. Once you have cleaned your tongue, use mouthwash to rinse out your mouth and you should experience a fresh, clean feel.
If you have a good oral hygiene routine and you clean your tongue on a regular basis and still suffer from bad breath, see your dentist, as this may be indicative of an oral health condition.
Tags: dental hygienist, General dentistry, General dentistry Leeds, Leeds
