Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are familiar parts of oral care. But dentists say many people overlook another surface where bacteria and food particles can collect: the tongue.
The tongue is covered with tiny bumps called papillae, which help us speak, chew, and experience food. The spaces around these bumps can trap biofilm, a mixture of bacteria and other debris. According to oral microbiologist Robert Shields, the bacteria living on the tongue are different from those found on tooth enamel because each group has adapted to a different environment.
When too much biofilm builds up, it may contribute to bad breath. A white coating on the tongue or a lasting metallic taste can be signs of such buildup, says dentist-scientist Luana Dias. Gentle cleaning may help remove some of it.
Several experts recommend using a tongue scraper rather than the same toothbrush used for the teeth. Dentist Maria Figueroa says toothbrush bristles can be too rough, especially when people scrub repeatedly or press too hard. Some overenthusiastic cleaners have even injured the surface of their tongues.
Dias recommends a metal scraper, such as one made of stainless steel or copper, rather than a plastic tool that can degrade over time. However, claims that copper scrapers remove toxins are not supported by research, says dentist Thomas Salinas.
To clean your tongue, stick it out and use a gentle raking motion across the front section. Focusing on the front may also make the process easier for people with a sensitive gag reflex. If the scraper picks up a thin white layer, rinse it between passes. Afterward, wash the tool and let it air-dry so that it does not become another place for bacteria to collect.
More pressure does not mean a cleaner tongue. Scrubbing too hard can damage the tissue, and researchers are still debating how tongue cleaning affects the helpful microbes in the mouth. Some experts recommend making it part of a daily routine, but moderation matters.