Is Tongue Scraping Capable of Eliminating Halitosis Effectively?
TikTokers are embracing an ancient oral hygiene practice: tongue scraping. This method, which uses a tool to remove buildup from the tongue's surface, has been lauded by dentists like California-based Joyce Kahng, DDS, who gained fame for her tongue scraping demonstration on TikTok. But is this practice effective in enhancing oral health and banishing halitosis?
We sought out dental professionals to examine the history of tongue scraping and determine its validity.
What is Tongue Scraping?
Tongue scraping, a technique that dates back centuries in certain regions including India, Africa, and South America, involves using a tool called a tongue scraper to gently clean the tongue of bacteria, dead cells, and other debris.
"Tongue scraping, known as Jihwa Nireekshana in Sanskrit, is a fundamental Ayurvedic ritual practiced for thousands of years," Nidhi Pandya, an Ayurvedic doctor based in New York and author of "Your Body Already Knows," tells our website. According to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the tongue is seen as a reflection of digestive health, with its color, texture, and coating revealing underlying imbalances.
Practitioners of Ayurveda use tongue scraping as a method to eliminate Ama, or buildup, which often appears as a white coating on the tongue. The practice serves not only to freshen the mouth, but also to optimize digestion and enhance taste perception, contributing to better overall health.
The Legitimacy of Tongue Scraping Benefits
Tongue scraping works by physically lifting and removing the buildup from the tongue, which can appear as a white or dark film. Removing this film eliminates odor-causing bacteria, which can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues if not managed properly.
Scientific research supports the claim that tongue scraping has a positive impact on oral health and banishes bad breath. The practice enables the removal of this film or coating from the tongue, which can help significantly improve the smell of one's breath.
Tongue scraping is not a strict requirement to maintain a clean tongue and fresh breath, as a toothbrush or simply wiping the tongue with a clean object can achieve the same goal. However, a tongue scraper helps make the process more seamless.
In addition to its effect on oral hygiene, tongue scraping according to Ayurveda, as Pandya notes, can improve taste perception. A small 2004 study suggests that tongue scraping could enhance taste sensation, making favorite foods even more delectable.
Tips for Effective Tongue Scraping
To properly use a tongue scraper, stand in front of a mirror, hold the two ends of the U-shaped device with both hands, and gently pull it towards the top of the tongue in one stroke. Repeat five to 10 times until the tongue feels clean and you can no longer see any film on it, then rinse your mouth with warm water. Make sure to clean the tool by rinsing it thoroughly with water and storing it in a clean, dry place.
Ayurvedic medicine advises practicing tongue scraping in the morning, as bacteria tends to accumulate overnight. However, be aware that the gag reflex may be more sensitive in the morning, so proceed with caution.
Choosing a Quality Tongue Scraper
With numerous tongue scrapers available, finding the right one is essential. Opt for a tool that is easy to use, gentle on the tongue, easy to clean, and fits within your budget. Materials like copper, known for its antimicrobial properties, and stainless steel are suited for the task and can effectively remove debris while reducing bacteria buildup.
Risks and Precautions
While tongue scraping is generally safe, exercise caution as the tongue is a sensitive organ. Using excessive pressure or a sharp tool could potentially irritate or injure the tongue's delicate tissues.
Though tongue scraping can contribute positively to oral hygiene, remember that it should not replace other essential oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing.
Additional Resources:- The Biggest Red Flags to Watch Out For at the Dentist- We Asked Dental Experts If Toothpaste Tablets Are Worth Trying- How to Take Great Care of Your Teeth, Even If You Don't Have Insurance
Food and health are interconnected, as tongue scraping, a practice believed to enhance oral health and banish halitosis, can also contribute to better overall health due to its effect on digestion and taste perception. Science supports the legitimacy of this ancient health-and-wellness practice, with studies suggesting that tongue scraping can improve taste sensation and remove odor-causing bacteria from the tongue, thereby optimizing oral health.
