Tongue scraping is becoming a popular addition to oral care routines—and for good reason. Rooted in Ayurveda, the simple yet effective practice helps remove bacteria and buildup from the tongue, contributing to fresher breath, good oral hygiene, and more.
In this guide, we dive into the benefits of tongue scraping. Then, we share step-by-step instructions and tips for making this habit part of your daily oral care regimen.
Key takeaways
- Tongue scraping helps cleanse dead cells, bacteria, and buildup from the tongue.
- It can help support oral hygiene and pleasant breath, which can boost your confidence throughout the day.
- Tongue scraping can enhance taste perception, too, enabling you to enjoy food flavors even more.
- A high-quality copper tongue scraper can be an excellent tool for tongue care.
- Including tongue scraping in your daily routine complements regular brushing and flossing, supporting improved oral cleanliness.
What is tongue scraping?
Tongue scraping, or Jihwa Prakshalana, is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves gently removing buildup from the tongue’s surface.
Traditionally, Ayurvedic practitioners believed that the tongue reflected the health of internal organs, and keeping it clean was a way to support overall well-being.
Tongue scraping has been traditionally used for centuries not only to freshen breath but also to address ama, a term in Ayurveda that describes buildup or impurities believed to affect oral balance.
Copper and stainless steel are common materials for tongue scrapers, as both have been recognized in Ayurveda for their perceived cleansing properties.
In recent years, tongue scraping has gained popularity in Western cultures. This resurgence in interest reflects a broader cultural shift towards ancient wellness routines, such as those in Ayurveda, focusing on natural methods for enhancing hygiene and nourishing holistic health.
Today, tongue scraping is seen as a practical tool for oral hygiene and a symbol of mindful self-care.
Benefits of tongue scraping
Regular tongue scraping can offer multiple benefits, including the following:
1. Supports oral freshness
Tongue scraping can help you maintain oral cleanliness by cleansing bacteria buildup on the tongue. Incorporating it into your daily oral care routine alongside brushing and flossing can help create a more thorough cleaning process.
2. Can help with fresh breath
Bacteria on the tongue are a cause of occasional bad breath, but tongue scraping can help by cleansing the buildup of bacteria. In fact, a 2021 study suggests regular tongue scraping is more effective at supporting fresh breath than brushing alone.
3. May improve taste sensation
Scraping helps clear dead cells and buildup off the tongue, potentially helping your taste buds function more effectively. This can enhance your ability to fully experience the flavors of various foods, allowing you to appreciate their depth and complexity.
4. Helps enhance appearance of tongue
A white-coated tongue can appear unsightly, especially in the morning, due to the accumulation of dead cells, bacteria, and debris that builds up overnight. Regular tongue scraping helps remove this buildup, keeping your tongue looking clean and pink.
How to get started with tongue scraping
Incorporating tongue scraping into your oral care routine is straightforward. Here’s what to do:
1. Choose your tool
Choosing the right tool is essential for effective tongue scraping. A high-quality tongue scraper made of copper or stainless steel is often ideal. These materials are valued for their traditional use in Ayurvedic cleansing practices.
⭐ Haveda’s collection of Copper Tongue Scrapers are known for their durability and reliable results, making it an excellent choice for those new to tongue scraping.
2. Know when to scrape
The best time to scrape your tongue is first thing in the morning before you eat or drink anything. Doing so helps remove overnight buildup and starts your day with a clean, fresh mouth.
3. Know how to scrape
Follow these six steps to scrape your tongue:
- Stand in front of a mirror, open your mouth wide, and stick out your tongue.
- Place the scraper toward the back of your tongue. Be cautious, though. Avoid placing it too far back to prevent gagging.
- Apply a bit of pressure, then gently but firmly pull the scraper from the back to the front of your tongue. Repeat this motion, ensuring you cover the entire surface of the tongue.
- Rinse the tongue scraper under warm water after each pass to remove debris.
- Repeat the process 5-7 times until your tongue appears clean.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water after scraping to wash away any remaining debris.
4. Clean your scraper
After each use, rinse your scraper thoroughly with warm water.
To keep your tongue scraper in optimal condition, give it a deeper clean once a week using a gentle, non-abrasive soap, such as Castile soap, and hot water.
Proper maintenance ensures your scraper remains free of buildup and is ready to use daily.
Potential drawbacks of tongue scraping
When performed correctly, tongue scraping is generally considered safe. However, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind:
Could trigger your gag reflex
One of the most common challenges for beginners is stimulating the gag reflex while tongue scraping. To minimize this, start scraping gently from the middle of the tongue rather than the back, gradually working your way further back as you get more comfortable with the practice.
Might irritate your tongue
Applying too much pressure while scraping can irritate the tongue’s surface. It’s essential to use gentle but firm pressure, enough to remove buildup but not so much that it causes discomfort. If you notice any irritation or discomfort, reduce the pressure and scrape more gently.
Could cause cuts
Inspect your scraper regularly for any rough or sharp edges that could potentially cut the surface of your tongue. Using a smooth scraper made of a high-quality material, such as stainless steel, can help prevent accidental injuries.
Might not be suitable for those with oral sensitivities
If you have sores or other oral sensitivities, consult a dental professional before starting tongue scraping. They can help determine if tongue scraping is suitable for you and provide advice on how to proceed safely.
Conclusion
Tongue scraping is a simple practice but could be a powerful addition to your oral care routine to support oral cleanliness and freshness. It helps remove buildup from the tongue—helping with occasional unpleasant breath, improving taste perception, and promoting good oral hygiene.
We recommend using a high-quality scraper, like Haveda’s Copper Tongue Scraper, to help enhance the results and ensure a consistent, effective practice.
Ready to take your wellness routine to the next level? Explore more of Haveda’s wellness products today and discover the benefits of holistic self-care.
FAQs
Can everyone use a tongue scraper?
Most people can benefit from tongue scraping. However, if you have sores, a sensitive tongue, or any other oral condition, it’s best to consult with a dental professional before starting. They can help determine whether tongue scraping is safe for your specific needs and provide any necessary modifications.
How often should you scrape your tongue?
Ideally, you should scrape your tongue once a day, preferably in the morning before eating or drinking anything. This helps remove the overnight buildup of bacteria. If you find your breath becoming unpleasant throughout the day, you can also use a tongue scraper after meals for extra freshness.
How do tongue scrapers compare to mouthwash?
Tongue scraping and mouthwash serve different purposes in your oral care routine. Mouthwash helps reduce bacteria and freshen breath by rinsing the mouth, while tongue scraping physically removes debris and buildup from the tongue’s surface. When used together, they provide a more complete approach to maintaining oral hygiene and freshness.
Meet the Author: Joann Schermerhorn© 2024 Haveda. All Rights Reserved. Haveda does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See additional information.
