Should You Be Using a Tongue Scraper?

Most people know they need to brush and floss daily—but the tongue? It often gets overlooked. Tongue scraping is a simple oral hygiene practice that could make a big difference in your overall dental health.

Your tongue naturally harbors bacteria, food debris, and dead cells. That fuzzy coating you might see in the morning? It's not just unpleasant to look at—it can contribute to bad breath and even tooth decay. While brushing your tongue with a toothbrush helps, scraping is more effective at removing that buildup. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “using a tongue scraper can help remove bacteria, improve taste, and reduce bad breath.” (Cleveland Clinic)

Tongue scrapers are typically made of metal or plastic and are curved to follow the shape of your tongue. To use one, you gently pull it from the back of your tongue to the front a few times, rinsing in between passes. It only takes a few seconds and can be done once or twice a day—usually during your regular brushing routine.

Many patients report feeling a cleaner mouth, fresher breath, and even an improved sense of taste after incorporating tongue scraping into their routine. It's not a replacement for brushing and flossing, but it can be a great addition. That said, if you have a sensitive gag reflex or cuts on your tongue, it may not be right for you.

Like any oral hygiene tool, proper technique matters. Don’t scrape too hard—you’re cleaning the tongue, not scraping paint off a wall. And keep your scraper clean by rinsing it thoroughly after each use.

At Rabalais Dental, we believe every part of your mouth matters. If you’re curious whether tongue scraping could help your oral health, ask us during your next visit. We’ll help you find a routine that works for your smile.

Sources
Cleveland Clinic: Does Tongue Scraping Really Work?
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-tongue-scraping-really-work

Healthline, Should You Be Using a Tongue Scraper?
https://www.healthline.com/health/tongue-scraping

American Dental Association, Mouth and Oral Hygiene
https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics