Here at Making You Smile NYC, we are always surprised by patients who don't brush their tongue. When asked why, they simply say “I didn’t know I had to.”
The tongue is home to a lot of bacteria that grow and cause bad breath as well as a bad taste in your mouth. This is due to the fact that your internal body is at 98.7 degrees, the ideal temperature for bacteria growth. Some people even have deep fissures or grooves on their tongue which make it easy for bacteria to hide and thrive. The bad taste occurs when taste buds on the tongue get covered in bacteria. If the bacteria aren't removed, it can alter the perception or taste of food, making it important to make sure you are cleaning your tongue properly.
Just like there is a correct way to brush your teeth or floss your tongue also needs to be cleaned in the right manner. You can brush your tongue with your toothbrush, or with a variety of tongue brushes or tongue scrapers that are sold wherever oral hygiene products are available. Brush the tongue starting from the back as far as you can go without gagging and work your way forward. Once you've brushed your tongue thoroughly make sure to rinse out your mouth well.
Remember that a clean tongue and mouth equals fresh breath and makes food taste better. A clean and healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy and happy body.
If you live in the New York area and are looking for an experienced dentist to help with bad breath issues, tooth sensitivity, or some other oral hygiene problem please contact our office. We would be happy to schedule you a consultation to see what can be done to give you the smile you've always wanted. Or book an appointment now.
