Dentists recommend brushing twice and flossing once daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums. You might wonder if you should also brush your tongue as part of your oral care regimen. Below, you'll learn more about why dental care providers suggest doing this and how to go about it. 

Why You Should Brush Your Tongue

Bacteria naturally thrive in the mouth, as this warm, damp environment encourages the reproduction of these microbes. Throughout the day, bacteria accumulate on the teeth and along the gumline. If they linger on these surfaces, they can cause tooth decay, cavities, and periodontal disease, which is why daily brushing and flossing are crucial for promoting oral health. 

These microorganisms also collect on the tongue, getting stuck in crevices and spaces between tastebuds. As they accumulate, they can produce a layer of biofilm, or sticky mass of bacteria. 

This film may change the way foods and beverages taste, which can prevent you from completely enjoying meals. More importantly, even after you brush and floss your teeth, bacteria on the tongue can get onto the teeth and gums, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. 

Since biofilm is sticky, it attracts more harmful microorganisms to the tongue, which can exacerbate dental and oral health problems. Additionally, bacteria on the tongue typically produce odors that cause bad breath. 

How to Brush Your Tongue

Though rinsing out your mouth will cleanse some bacteria off the tongue, brushing is a much more thorough and effective way of eliminating these microbes. Once you finish brushing your teeth, rinse the brush and reapply a small amount of toothpaste. Brush your tongue using back-and-forth and side-to-side motions. Make sure you use a brush with soft bristles and brush gently to prevent breaking the skin.

Alternatively, you can use a tongue scraper, which is a device with a long handle and contoured plastic or metal head. Stick out your tongue and run the contoured part over it, starting from the back and slowly pulling the device forward. Dentists suggest brushing your teeth after doing this since the process may dislodge and disperse bacteria onto the teeth and gums. 

Promote your oral health with help from Anderson Dental Group. With locations in Mooresville and Salisbury, NC, this dentist provides routine cleanings and dental exams along with treatments and restorative care to clients throughout the region. Call (704) 663-3300 for the Mooresville location or (704) 636-3611 for Salisbury to book an appointment. Visit the website to learn more about how they can help you maintain a healthy smile.