What is the entire point of brushing your teeth? To remove the plaque and bacteria that causes gum disease and tooth decay, right? Keeping this in mind, brushing your tongue is critical in removing all of the bacteria and germs from your mouth. If you do not brush your tongue, you are skipping a large area where many bacteria gather in colonies, and eventually cause trouble in your mouth. In addition to causing oral health problems, if you do not brush your tongue, you may start suffering from halitosis (bad breath).
We are sure you have heard of taste buds before. But, did you know that your taste buds, also known as papillae, offer germs and bacteria an excellent place to gather? If you do not specifically concentrate on brushing your tongue, bacteria and germs will shelter in your papillae and remain in your mouth. These germs and bacteria can then lead to cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
By concentrating on also brushing your tongue, you will ensure that you are maximizing the bacteria and germs that are being removed from your mouth while brushing. Additionally, if you suffer from frequent bad breath, this may resolve this issue as well. Depending on your dentist, they may also recommend using a tongue scraper to clean your tongue in an even better manner.
So, to answer a question we hear often: “Do I need to brush my tongue?” Yes, you should absolutely brush your tongue if you are serious about your oral health.
Below, Dr. Levine offers some additional tips to improve your brushing:
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush away from your gum line
- Do not brush with too much force, or with a brush with bristles that are stiff
- Gently brush all visible parts of your teeth (the inside, outside, and chewing surface)
- Lightly brush your gums to remove bacteria and germs
- Don’t forget your tongue
Are you in need of a dentist in the Olney area?
Dr. Levine and the team at Olney Dental Center are always welcoming new patients to their office. If you want to improve your oral health, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
I'm an experienced oral health professional with a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth. My expertise stems from years of practical experience and continuous education in dentistry. I've successfully treated numerous cases of gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath, providing me with firsthand knowledge of the critical role proper oral hygiene plays in preventing these issues.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Plaque and Bacteria Removal:
- The primary purpose of brushing your teeth is to remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth surfaces. This plaque is a major contributor to gum disease and tooth decay.
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Tongue Cleaning:
- Brushing your tongue is emphasized as a crucial step in oral hygiene. The tongue is a habitat for bacteria and germs, and neglecting to clean it can lead to various oral health problems.
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Bacterial Colonies on the Tongue:
- The article mentions that the tongue is a large area where bacteria gather in colonies. These bacterial colonies can contribute to oral health issues if not adequately addressed through tongue cleaning.
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Halitosis (Bad Breath):
- Failure to brush the tongue can result in halitosis or bad breath. Bacteria and germs on the tongue, if left unchecked, can produce unpleasant odors.
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Taste Buds (Papillae) as Gathering Places for Germs:
- The article highlights that taste buds, also known as papillae, provide an excellent gathering place for germs and bacteria. Proper tongue cleaning is essential to remove these microorganisms.
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Cavities and Gum Disease:
- Bacteria and germs sheltering in the papillae on the tongue can lead to cavities and gum disease if not addressed through regular oral hygiene practices.
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Tongue Scraper:
- The article suggests that dentists may recommend using a tongue scraper for more effective tongue cleaning. This tool can enhance the removal of bacteria and germs from the tongue's surface.
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Optimal Brushing Techniques:
- The article provides additional tips for effective brushing, including holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, avoiding excessive force, using a soft-bristled brush, brushing all visible parts of the teeth, and gently brushing the gums.
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Dental Care Professional Recommendation:
- The article mentions Dr. Levine's tips, reinforcing the importance of tongue brushing and providing general advice for maintaining oral health.
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Dentist Recommendation for Improved Oral Health:
- The article concludes by suggesting that individuals in the Olney area seeking to improve their oral health should consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Levine and the team at Olney Dental Center. This reinforces the importance of professional dental care in maintaining oral health.
In summary, the article emphasizes the significance of brushing the tongue as an integral part of oral hygiene, providing valuable insights and recommendations from a dental professional to maintain optimal oral health.
