How To Clean Tongue Scraper Like a Pro

A tongue scraper cleaner is a handy tool that can help you improve your oral hygiene and freshen your breath. But do you know how to clean your tongue cleaner properly? If not, don’t worry. In this article, I will show you how to clean your tongue scraper like a pro using some simple steps and tips.

Why You Should Clean Your Tongue Scraper

Your tongue brush is designed to remove bacteria, food particles, and debris from the surface of your tongue. However, if you don’t clean your tongue scraper regularly, these residues can accumulate on the scraper and cause problems. Some of the reasons why you should clean your tongue scraper are:

To maintain its effectiveness: A clean tongue scraper can remove more bacteria and debris from your tongue than a dirty one. A dirty tongue scraper may also reintroduce the bacteria back into your mouth, defeating the purpose of using it.

To prevent bad breath: Bacteria and food particles on your tongue scraper can produce foul-smelling gases contributing to bad breath. By cleaning your tongue scraper, you can eliminate these sources of odor and keep your breath fresh.

To avoid oral infections: A dirty tongue scraper can harbor harmful microorganisms that can cause oral infections such as gum disease, oral thrush, or even tooth decay. Cleaning your tongue scraper can reduce the risk of these infections and protect your oral health.

How To Clean Your Tongue Scraper

Cleaning your tongue scraper is not difficult, but it requires some attention and care. Here are the steps that you should follow to clean your tongue scraper like a pro:

Rinse it with water after each use: This is the simplest and most important step to keep your tongue scraper clean. After using your tongue scraper, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any visible debris or bacteria from its surface.

Scrub it with toothpaste once in a while: For more thorough cleaning, you can use a toothbrush and toothpaste to scrub your tongue scraper once in a while. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to a soft-bristle toothbrush and gently scrub the surface of the scraper, paying attention to the grooves and edges. Rinse well with warm water and pat dry1.

Sanitize it with lemon and salt occasionally: For an extra level of sanitation, you can use lemon and salt to disinfect your tongue scraper occasionally. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle some salt on it. Rub the lemon half on the surface of the scraper with light pressure. Rinse well with warm water and dry immediately.

Store it in a clean and dry place: After cleaning your tongue scraper, store it in a clean and dry place away from moisture and dirt. You can use a protective case or a plastic bag to keep it safe. Avoid storing it in humid or damp places such as bathrooms or kitchens.

When To Replace Your Tongue Scraper

Even if you clean your tongue scraper regularly, you may need to replace it at some point. Some signs that indicate that you need a new tongue scraper are:

Wear and tear: If your tongue scraper shows signs of wear and tear such as cracks, bends, rusts, or breaks, you should replace it as soon as possible. A damaged tongue scraper may not work effectively or may even injure your tongue.

Discoloration or odor: If your tongue scraper changes color or develops an unpleasant odor, you should replace it as well. A discolored or smelly tongue scraper may indicate that it is contaminated with bacteria or fungi that are hard to remove.

Recommended replacement timeline: Depending on the type and quality of your tongue scraper, you may need to replace it every few months or every year. Check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult your dentist for the best advice on when to replace your tongue scraper.

Conclusion

Cleaning your tongue scraper is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene and freshening your breath. By following these simple steps and tips, you can clean your tongue scraper like a pro and enjoy its benefits for longer. Remember to rinse, scrub, sanitize, store, and replace your tongue scraper regularly for optimal results.