Your tongue matters seriously in your oral health. Learn here in 5 steps how to use a tongue cleaner and its benefits. Believe it or not, in the end the food you eat will even taste better!
What is a tongue cleaner?
Typically there’s a white or yellowish coating on the top layer of the tongue. Our tongues harbour a large niche of microorganisms in the oral cavity, as result of food debris, saliva and dead cells. In other words, it’s like leaving leftovers in a car on a hot day. So, it is important to thoroughly collect the residue and clean the surface of the tongue, daily.
You may be surprised to know that tongue cleaners in various materials have been used for centuries in oral hygiene from Asia to Europe and Africa. So get your tongue out in front of a mirror and let’s learn how to use your new oral care friend.
How to use a tongue cleaner?
It might not be sexy, but it can be a confidence booster. Make it fun!
Step #1 - Prepare your tongue
- Stand in front of the mirror. Smile and greet yourself on a good morning! Yes, you should do it in the morning with an empty stomach (learn why ahead).
- Open your mouth and stick out your tongue.
- Start by moistening your tongue with water or mouthwash.
Step #2 - Place the cleaner on your tongue
- Just start from the middle of your tongue to the tip.
- Never place The Bam&Boo cleaner too far back on your tongue.
- Then you can gradually start further back as you get used to the sensation.
- Keep it easy and avoid the hassle or discomfort.
- *NEVER* push the cleaner from the tip of your tongue back. The motion is always back to front.
Step #3 - Press gently and scrape forward
- Be mindful of how much pressure you apply.
- Start soft to avoid harming your taste buds or break the skin and gradually increase the pressure.
- This forward motion is key to loosen, collect and remove all debris and microorganisms in your tongue.
Step #4 - Repeat and wash your tongue cleaner
- After each scrape, wash The Bam&Boo tongue cleaner to remove debris and repeat.
- One or two scrapes across the same area is usually enough. But you may repeat 5 to 8 times for better results.
Step #5 - Take care of your tongue cleaner and complete oral care routine
- Gentle hand wash your The Bam&Boo tongue cleaner with warm water and soap and store it in a clean, dry area.
- Follow tongue cleaning with flossing, brushing and a large glass of water.
Et voilà! You’ve nailed it.
Do’s and Don’ts of a tongue cleaner
There are 3 major side effects of using a tongue cleaner. It can make you vomit, gag reflex or damage of taste buds. Good news is that you can avoid/prevent these by using the tongue cleaner correctly. Check here:
How to choose an eco-friendly tongue cleaner?
Choosing your tongue cleaner is a unique experience likewise choosing the right toothbrush for you. Obviously we root for tongue cleaners made of sustainable materials like copper or stainless steel, ultra hygienic, easy to clean and long lasting.
But we want you to be informed of the different materials and shapes, so that you can make the most eco-friendly choice that best suits your comfort and sustainable lifestyle.
Materials
Basically there are 3 options for this oral care tool: plastic, copper and stainless steel. Selection is a lot easier now than in ancient times when tongue cleaners were made of ivory, flexible wood, mother-of-pearl, whalebone, gold, silver, brass or tortoiseshell. Incredible, right?
1. Plastic
A plastic tongue cleaner can be gentler on your tongue. It might offer a more comfortable and easier grip. It is affordable. There are coloured versions which can be practical in a family. But it isn’t an eco-friendly option. Plus, you have to replace them more frequently (3/4 months).
2. Copper
A copper tongue cleaner is naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial. Copper is considered the best metal to fight bad bacteria. Its antiseptic properties also make it a good pick. It will last a lifetime if you care for it properly (occasionally swab with lime juice to remove tarnish).
3. Stainless steel
The stainless steel tongue cleaner is resistant to bacteria and ultra-hygienic, very easy to bend and disinfect. Like copper, it is a metal and it’s heavier than plastic. Plus, the feeling of stainless steel on the surface of the tongue is a totally different experience from plastic. The stainless steel tongue cleaner is long lasting, if you take proper care for it. It is not naturally susceptible to rust or mold. It is BPA free, therefore an eco-friendly option.
Shapes
A tongue cleaner is certainly a quirky tool. There are several designs: U or V shaped, others feature a small scraper at the end of the handle like a toothbrush. Some have wide based handles, others offer long slender handles. Smooth and comfortable edges. They are all ergonomically designed and one doesn’t work better than the other. This is a very personal choice regarding comfort and sustainability.
Benefits of using a tongue cleaner
According to Chinese Medicine, the tongue is like a map of all your body’s organs. So using a tongue cleaner will have an impact on your overall health.
- Removal of dead cells and bacteria
- Improve the appearance of your tongue
- Reduce bad breath
- Increase confidence
- Food will taste better
- Improve oral and gut health
- Better overall health!
Welcome Green Tailors tongue cleaner, your new oral care family member. On a final note, save the right order of your oral care routine: clean your tongue, floss & brush your teeth and mouthwash. Keep smiling!
