What Can Happen If You Neglect Cleaning Your Tongue Posted on 7/20/2016 by Sundberg Office Oral hygiene is extremely important. Without proper brushing, flossing, you are at risk for several problems, such as plaque, cavities, tooth decay and gingivitis. But your teeth are not the only things in your mouth that require attention. Did you know that cleaning your tongue on a regular basis is also an important factor in maintaining a clean, healthy mouth? Without proper attention, you leave yourself at risk for a whole host of issues.
Bacterial Buildup
Your tongue is a very textured surface. The areas between your taste buds are prime locations for bacteria to take up residence. Rinsing with mouthwash isn’t enough to evict that stubborn invader. It must be physically removed. There are several ways to go about this. You could use your everyday toothbrush. There are also designated tongue brushes. The most effective tool, however, is a tongue scraper.
Poor Tasting Ability
Too much buildup on your tongue can coat your taste buds, thus inhibiting your ability to properly taste food. By routinely cleaning your tongue, you remove this awful coating, exposing your taste buds and allowing you to properly taste foods and beverages. You may even find that things you once found appalling are actually quite delicious!
Compromising Overall Health
The bacteria and debris that has accumulated on your tongue can occasionally slough off on its own, leaving you to ingest it without even knowing it. What you ingest could potentially harm your immune system and put you at risk for other health issues.
Dental Issues
Even if you are diligent in your brushing and flossing routine, by not cleaning your tongue, you are essentially defeating your purpose. You may have removed plaque and germs from your teeth, but the ones that remain on your tongue can still invade, causing similar problems to buildup on teeth, such as plaque, tooth decay and infections. A complete cleaning regimen is crucial to overall oral health. Brushing and flossing are great, but they are not enough to prevent problems. In order to truly remove bacteria and other buildup from your mouth, be sure that you thoroughly clean your tongue as well. Not only will it keep your mouth clean, it may also open up your palate to a whole world of new tastes! Please contact us if you have any questions about cleaning your tongue.