Tongue Care: Why and How to Do It

Brushing and flossing get the attention, but the tongue harbours bacteria too — and cleaning it is a simple way to freshen breath and support oral health. Here's why and how.

Why clean your tongue

The tongue's surface traps bacteria and debris that contribute to bad breath and plaque. Clearing it daily complements brushing and flossing.

How to care for your tongue

1. Clean it daily. Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush, starting at the back and working forward, rinsing the tool after each pass.
2. Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water keeps the mouth moist, which limits bacterial growth.
3. Notice the colour. A healthy tongue is light pink with a thin coating. A thick white coating or an unusually pale tongue can be worth mentioning to your dentist or doctor.
4. Eat well. A balanced diet supports a healthy mouth; crunchy fruit and vegetables also help keep it clean.

Tongue cleaning is one part of fresher breath — see bad breath: causes and how to fix it for the full picture. Due a clean? Book a check-up and cleaning.