Searches for “tongue scraper” have nearly doubled over the past two decades, according to Google Trends. While tongue-scraping has been around for ages as a dental health practice, some experts are raising eyebrows about potential risks. Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist, pointed out that there’s a strong link between good oral hygiene and heart health.
The process of tongue-scraping is all about cleaning the tongue to remove bad bacteria, food debris, and dead cells. While regular brushing helps, specific tongue-scraping tools make this easier and can be found at your local pharmacy for around $8. Dr. Whitney White from Aspen Dental suggests gentle tongue-scraping up to once a day for adults to keep bacteria at bay and freshen breath.
Choosing the right tool is key. Dr. White recommends metal tongue scrapers for their hygienic properties. Ohio-based dental hygienist Tenika Patterson agrees, emphasizing that tongue-scraping can more effectively remove plaque and bacteria than brushing alone. “Think of it like cleaning a carpet,” Patterson explains. “Scrubbing embeds dirt, but scraping lifts it off.”
Despite the benefits, there’s a flip side to consider. Dr. Serwer warns that tongue-scraping can cause small cuts on the tongue, potentially letting bacteria into the bloodstream. This raises the risk of endocarditis, a heart valve infection that can lead to severe heart damage if untreated.
Overdoing tongue-scraping could lower nitric oxide levels in the body, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, Dr. White cautions. While regular scraping helps eliminate harmful bacteria, excessive scraping can upset the balance of good microbes on your tongue, which are crucial for heart health.
Maintaining oral hygiene remains a priority. Dr. Serwer advises sticking to basics like regular dentist visits, brushing, and flossing. While these activities can also introduce bacteria, their benefits for gum health are significant. Tongue-scraping, on the other hand, offers minimal advantages.
For those dedicated to tongue-scraping, Dr. White recommends moderation as the key to keeping both your mouth and body healthy. Although it’s not essential, it can complement a routine of brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing. Balancing oral health is not just about routine but understanding the impact of each action.
Khloe Quill from Fox News Digital highlights the importance of considering tongue-scraping’s role within a comprehensive oral care routine. As with any health practice, understanding both benefits and risks can guide better choices. If you’re curious about other health topics, check out www.foxnews.com/health.
