Copper Tongue Scraper
Purpose
Tool used to remove bacteria, food particles and other debris from the surface of the tongue. Copper Tongue Scrapers restrict the growth of plaque, gives you fresh breath, and helps you maintain better oral hygiene.
Description
Brushing and flossing your teeth are important daily hygiene practices, but cleaning your tongue with a scraper is also a crucial step for removing bacteria and maintaining a clean mouth. You can get a similar effect if you simply brush your tongue a few times as you brush your teeth, but some experts say a dedicated scraping tool is better at removing plaque and bacteria from the tongue’s surface. Think of it this way – if your carpet is dirty and you scrub it, the dirt is going to get embedded down further, but if you scrape the dirt it will come right off the surface. Some studies even suggest that tongue scraping can remove bacteria and improve bad breath more than brushing. Other benefits of tongue scraping include improved taste, decreased risk of gum inflammation and cavities, and the removal of dead cells that can build up due to medication use, smoking or dry mouth.
Copper Tongue Scrapers are stain resistant and not susceptible to rust or mold, making it durable and easy to clean – put it in a dishwasher or opt for gentle hand wash. The ‘U’ shaped curve of this tongue scraper has been carefully designed to be flexible yet sturdy for prolonged usage. It features two non-synthetic handles for a good grip.
Tips
Tongue scraping is low risk but needs to be done gently. If you press as hard as you can on the scraper, you could cut your tongue and potentially damage your taste buds. It’s easy to add tongue scraping to your brushing routine. First, brush and floss your teeth as usual. Then:
- Stick out your tongue.
- Start the scraper at the very back of the tongue.
- Using light pressure, run the scraper all the way to the front of the tongue (if it hurts or cuts your tongue, it’s too much pressure).
- Rinse the scraper under warm water and repeat 2 or 3 more times to clean the entire surface of the tongue, rinsing the scraper between each passing.
- Swish your mouth out with water afterward.
- Rinse the scraper off once you’re done and store in a clean area (sanitize regularly with hot water or alchohol)
If your tongue gives off any visual clues that it’s not healthy – like white, black or red discoloration, or sores or pain that persists for more than a week or two – make an appointment to visit with your dentist.