5 Reasons Why You Should Start Tongue Scraping Today: Benefits for Oral Health and Beyond

Your smile—or your breath (especially if stinky)—is often noticed first when meeting someone new, so why not make sure you keep it in check? When it comes to oral hygiene, brushing and flossing usually get all the attention. But there’s another simple, ancient practice gaining traction for its impressive benefits: tongue scraping. Rooted in Ayurvedic traditions, tongue scraping involves using a tool, typically made of metal, to gently remove the coating that forms on your tongue. It’s quick, easy, and can have a surprisingly positive impact on your overall health. I’ve been tongue scraping for over 5 years and I cannot rave enough about the benefits. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about tongue scraping.

Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a healthcare practitioner. The information shared in this post is based on personal experience and research. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your oral hygiene routine or if you have any concerns regarding your health.

The Benefits of Tongue Scraping

1. Improves Oral Health

The primary reason to start tongue scraping is its impact on oral health. Your tongue harbours a variety of bacteria, food debris, and dead cells that can contribute to bad breath and other oral issues. By regularly scraping your tongue, you remove these unwanted particles, leading to fresher breath and a cleaner mouth. Tongue scraping can also help prevent cavities and gum disease by reducing the overall bacterial load in your mouth. Neat, huh?

2. Enhances Your Sense of Taste

Have you ever noticed your taste buds feeling dull? Tongue scraping can help with that. By clearing away the buildup on your tongue, you expose your taste buds, allowing them to function more effectively. This can enhance your ability to taste food, making your meals more enjoyable and satisfying. Who doesn’t like not being able to taste delicious food? Not me.

3. Supports Digestive Health

In Ayurvedic medicine, the tongue is seen as a mirror of the digestive system. The coating on your tongue can be an indication of toxins and undigested food particles that cloud your system. Removing this coating can help improve digestion by ensuring that your taste buds are fully engaged, which can trigger the digestive process more effectively. A clean tongue can also signal to your brain that it’s time to eat, helping to regulate appetite and digestion.

4. Promotes a Balanced Oral Microbiome

Your mouth is home to a delicate balance of bacteria, both good and bad. Tongue scraping helps maintain this balance by removing excess bacteria that can lead to oral health issues, without disrupting the beneficial bacteria that are essential for a healthy oral environment. This practice can also reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, a fungal infection that can occur when the balance of microorganisms in the mouth is disrupted.

5. Encourages Mindful Morning Rituals

Tongue scraping is a quick and easy addition to your morning routine, but it can also be a moment of mindfulness. Taking a few extra seconds each day to care for yourself in this way can set a positive tone for the rest of the day. It’s a simple act that reminds you to pay attention to your body and its needs, helping you start your day with intention and self-care.

How to Get Started with Tongue Scraping

Starting a tongue-scraping routine is simple. Here’s how to do it:

Tongue Scraper

Here’s my Amazon affiliate link to a great tongue scraper with a storage case—choose one made of stainless steel or copper for durability and effectiveness.

• First Thing in the Morning: Perform tongue scraping as soon as you wake up, before drinking water or brushing your teeth.

• Position the Scraper: Hold the scraper by both ends and place it at the back of your tongue.

• Scrape Gently: Gently scrape the surface of your tongue, moving from the back to the front. Use light pressure to avoid irritation.

• Rinse and Repeat: Rinse the scraper and repeat 3–5 times until your tongue feels clean.

• Clean the Scraper: Rinse your tongue scraper thoroughly and dry it before storing it in a clean, dry place.

Incorporating tongue scraping into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your oral health and overall well-being. It’s a small, simple practice that offers a range of benefits, from fresher breath and better digestion to a more mindful start to your day. If you’re looking to elevate your self-care routine and invest in your health, tongue scraping is a great place to start. Give it a try and experience the difference for yourself!

-S