Are You a Tongue Scrapper?

Dr. Oz does it!

You should be!

Just like brushing and flossing, you should scrape your tongue daily.

Why...

Tongue Scraping:

• Removes bad breath causing bacteria
• Removes food debris, fungi & dead cells
• Helps prevent periodontal disease
• Improves oral hygiene
• Boosts immune system
• Discourages sinus infections
• Reduce cravings
• Enhances sense of taste
• Dr. Oz does it
• Cheap, quick & easy

Throughout the night (I assume that's when you sleep) the tongue accumulates an icky plaque film (that white/yellow stuff), which prevents you from having fresh breath, even after brushing your teeth.  In fact, 90% of bad breath comes from the bacteria found on your tongue.  This bacteria is also believed to be a major contributor to periodontal issues, plaque, tooth decay, gum infections, gum recession and even tooth loss.

But, I already...

Yeah, yeah - you brush your tongue everyday.  Not the same thing.  You're actually just moving the crud around your tongue as well as helping to push bacteria into it.  Completely defeating your intent and by the way, yuck!

You see, toothbrushes were designed to clean a solid surface (teeth), not the spongy surface of your tongue - it's simply the wrong tool for the job.

How to scrape...

• Stick tongue out
• Place scraper at back of tongue
• Gently, yet firmly pull forward
• Rinse scraper
• Repeat 2-3 times or until needed
• Rinse mouth

Where to get a scraper...

I found my tongue scraper on Vitacost - for less than $3 - not too shabby!  I specifically prefer the Pureline Oralcare Tongue Cleaner.


My thoughts...

I highly advise that you keep any eye on yourself in the mirror while you scrape and watch all that yellow sludge slide off your tongue.  Otherwise, it will feel like you're not accomplishing anything, because it is so ridiculously quick & simple and consequentially stop this very beneficial daily ritual.

For me, I no longer wake up with funky breath and I have to say that's a nice way to greet the day!  I also no longer get an icky taste in my mouth halfway through the day and my tongue looks prettier!

By the way, this is not some new gimmick - tongue scraping has been practiced for centuries in ancient India & Russia.  In the 19th century specially handcrafted tongue scrapers made of sterling silver, ivory, and tortoise shell were coveted.

Keep It Healthy!
The Hoff

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tongue_cleaner