The breakdown of food debris by bacteria inside your mouth is the major cause of bad breath. Proper brushing techniques that also include giving your tongue a good scrub will go a long way in taming halitosis, or bad breath.
Bacteria Tongue Coating
The tongue provides the greatest surface area for microbial growth in the oral cavity as reported by a review in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene. According to Dr. Thomas Gibbs, a veteran Glen Ellyn IL dentist, the bacteria colony on the tongue accounts for more than four-fifth of bad breath cases.
Regularly cleaning your tongue will significantly reduce the buildup of the foul smelling bacteria. Using a toothbrush to scrub usually suffices. Nevertheless, specialized tools like tongue scrapers are available for a thorough tongue cleaning. Using mouthwash will also help in minimizing the bacteria colony on your tongue without getting rid of them and their usually protective benefits.
Tongue Cleaning Technique
Your Smile Glen Ellyn, IL dentist advises that you clean your tongue starting from the far end working carefully to the front. If you have a strong gag reflex, exercise extra caution by avoiding the sensitive points near the back throat that may trigger vomiting.
Fresh breath traverses the borders of tooth brushing. Clean your tongue as often as you brush and floss your teeth to maintain fresh breath. For any questions on tongue health, be sure to call or make an appointment today!
