How To Choose a Good Tongue Cleaner

For many people, using a toothbrush to clean the tongue is more than enough. But others prefer to use a special device, such as a tongue cleaner that scrapes whatever gunk is left in the surface a simple brushing won't remove. Tongue cleaners are also designed to clean the back of tongue, which most people never actually do.


Why Is Tongue Cleaning Necessary?
Bad breath is caused by a lot of factors and one of this includes improper dental hygiene. If you're suffering from bad breath, it's definitely going to put a blow on presence in social functions among friends or in contributing effectively at work. You will be compelled to talk less and resign yourself to your own corner, fearful that if you open your mouth, you will drive people away. Cleaning the tongue greatly improves bad breath and it is more effective than simply brushing the teeth.

What Does It Look Like?
Tongue cleaners look like small rakes and are shaped ergonomically, meaning they are formed to follow the arch of the tongue. Shaped this way, the cleaners can trap dirt and bacteria well and clean it effectively.  They work based on shape, size and configuration, so choose what to buy carefully.

Choosing A Tongue Cleaner
Engineered for a specific purpose, tongue cleaners vary in design and material. Below are useful tips to choosing one that works best:
1. There are two kinds of tongue cleaners: a brush or a scraper. Both work effectively, but a scaper, which has a flat design, provides less gag reflex when you're trying to clean the back of your tongue. If you have a tendency to gag, then you're better off with a scraper than a brush. Most people actually go for the scraper anyway, because there's always the toothbrush for brushing.

2. Tongue cleaners also come in different sizes. If you're not sure of what to get, check your tongue in the mirror to assess the size first. Smaller scrapers are perfect for smaller mouth and children's mouth. A bigger, wide-angled cleaner is ideal for adults and can clean with just a few strokes.

3. Pick out a scraper made of durable material. In the earlier centuries, there were tongue cleaners made out of tortoise shells or ivory. These days, however, you will find less sophisticated scrapers. Some are made of copper, while others are made from stainless steel. These need to be sterilized before use and may cost more than plastic types. Plastic scrapers shouldn't be boiled, but it can be cleaned using an anti-bacterial soap.

4. Some tongue scrapers come with special features that make it look adorable. But you probably don't need most of the features, as manufacturers add this only to make the product more marketable, especially with kids. If you have to use scrapers with children, though, then getting this type will probably be helpful.

Using A Tongue Cleaner
Before brushing the teeth, point your scraper inside the mouth and then reach out from the back and slowly glide the scraper towards the front in a swift and fluid movement. Do this at least 3 to 4 times. Some suggest applying toothpaste on the scraper, and then proceeding with brushing the teeth afterwards, followed by flossing. Gargle with a mouthwash last, to complete the oral hygiene process.

There will be some gagging reflex the first time you use a tongue cleaner, but if you do this often, you will already get used to the process. Store this in a clean and dry place when not in use.
Pertinent to good health and beauty is oral hygiene. If you don't have a regular habit of doing this, you risk developing several mouth problems. If you have braces on, oral care is even more important.

(Guest Post by Helen)