After you brush, there is a lot of bacteria and plaque that can be left behind if you do not clean off your tongue. The tongue has so many ridges and rough surfaces where these things grow. This is why it’s vital for denture wearers to clean their tongue.
Cleaning the tongue is a simple process. After the dentures are brushed off, apply a non-abrasive toothpaste on the brush and go over the top of the tongue in slow circular motions. Be sure to also brush off the sides and tip of the tongue as well to be sure to clear away bacteria. This will also give you fresher breath.
If you’d like, you may also use a tongue scraper. The tongue scraper has a small handle for you to hold it on one end and the scraper on the other end. The scraper end goes over the tongue. While using a tongue scraper, just sweep back and forth over the tongue. Be sure to avoid a lot of overlapping sweeps and rinse the brush before using again if buildup becomes noticeable.
There may still be bacteria that is missed after tongue cleaning. Any remaining bacteria can give you bad breath and grow plaque. Using an antiseptic mouthwash will help you be rid of any hiding bacteria by cleaning it out and also giving you minty fresh breath.
For any questions about tongue cleaning, please call us at Pine Ridge Dental in Lincoln, Nebraska at 402-423-1100 today!
402-423-1100
EDGEWOOD LOCATION
5140 S. 56th Street,
Lincoln, NE 68516
WILDERNESS RIDGE LOCATION
8545 Executive Woods Dr. #2,
Lincoln, NE 68512