The value of your tongue is obvious – it helps you rub food out of the back of your teeth, it sticks out when you want to make a funny face, and of course, it enables you to taste and talk. The tongue is extremely important for communication and enjoying food, and should be treated as the crucial part of the quality of everyday life it is.
That means keeping your tongue healthy and clean, because if proper care is not taken, the tongue can be a breeding ground for the bacteria that causes bad breath. In extreme cases it can make your tongue crusty, or turn it yellow, white, black, and even give it the appearance of looking hairy. Needless to say, such unfortunate results are best avoided, and for that you need the right tools.
There’s a device available called a tongue cleaner that’s built specifically for the purpose of… cleaning tongues as effectively and efficiently as possible. So should you run out to the store and buy one? The answer is… probably not. For most people the only tool they need to keep their tongue clean is one that they already have – their toothbrush. Simply by brushing your tongue back to front – toothpaste is optional – you can keep your tongue clear of the bacteria that causes bad breath and remove any plaque that might have formed on it. While a toothbrush is usually sufficient, if you have issues with your tongue, or want a somewhat easier way to get it thoroughly clean a tongue cleaner might be a good investment.
Check your tongue regularly as well, just stick it out and take a good look in your bathroom mirror. What you’re looking for are changes to the skin or any cuts or white or red patches that haven’t healed within a couple of weeks. These may be indicative of a deeper problem, even potentially mouth cancer, so make sure to see a professional if these symptoms arise. For the aforementioned crusty tongue, clean it when your mouth is most moist, which is generally after brushing, or consider using a moisturizing spray or gel.
With just a little preventative maintenance you can keep your tongue healthy. If your tongue is showing any problems you want to get checked out, or if you have any other mouth or dental issues you want a professional to see, please contact us at Pickering Square Dental.
