Dentist Sioux City | Should I Be Using a Tongue Scraper?

In addition to brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing at least once, it is also important to take good care of your tongue. Bacteria can build up on your tongue throughout the day. For some patients, using a tongue scraper can be the best solution for a cleaner, healthier tongue.

Should You Be Using One?

The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) found scraping your tongue results in a noticeable decrease in the sulfur compounds which can lead to bad breath. According to a study in the Journal of Periodontology, tongue scrapers reduced these compounds by 75%, while using a standard toothbrush only reduced 45% of sulfur compounds. Choose a method that works best for your mouth, but make sure you are taking care of your tongue.

What Do They Do?

While they may help alleviate bad breath, scraper’s main function is to clean off debris and bacteria from your tongue. Your toothbrush is designed to effectively clean teeth, but the surface of your tongue is very different from that of your teeth. A tongue scraper may provide a more thorough cleaning for your tongue.

How Do I Use One?

Start by washing out your mouth. When you are ready clean your tongue, place the scraper in the back of your mouth, and gently pull it forward. Make sure you are scraping all areas of your tongue, but do not push so far back that you gag. You will want to rinse your mouth after you are done. Be sure to clean the scraper when you are finished.

While you might not be used to cleaning your tongue, it can be an effective solution for bad breath and bacteria caused by food. At your next appointment, ask our Sioux City dentist about other ways of keeping your tongue clean and your mouth healthy. Keeping up with your daily oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing is crucial to maintaining your oral health and preventing unhealthy bacteria.

For more tips on a healthy mouth or to schedule your next visit to our Sioux City dental office, please contact Family 1st Dental. We look forward to seeing you.

Family 1st Dental of Sioux City
Phone: (712) 255-5754
Url: https://ffdsiouxcity.com/
2928 Hamilton Boulevard Upper E
Sioux City, IA 51104

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Sioux City Dental Office

Dentist Sioux City

Sioux City Location

2928 Hamilton Boulevard, Upper E,
Sioux City, IA 51104

(712) 255-5754

20220513_104246

Our Dental News

Dentist Sioux City

bKawyDAmkVil0cq6f7Qy8GYkzAoKYjJ3iFVEe7ax

Recognizing and Treating Gum Disease Early – Why Choose Family 1st Dental

October 3, 2025

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common issue that affects many individuals, yet it often goes unnoticed until it progresses. At Family 1st Dental, our team emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of gum disease early. […]

Learn More
bKawyDAmkVil0cq6f7Qy8GYkzAoKYjJ3iFVEe7ax

The Advantages of Laser-Assisted Dentistry – Why Choose Family 1st Dental

October 1, 2025

Laser-assisted dentistry is revolutionizing the way dental procedures are performed, offering patients in Sioux City an exceptional standard of care that promotes both precision and comfort. At Family 1st Dental, this advanced technology is utilized prominently in various treatments, enhancing […]

Learn More
bKawyDAmkVil0cq6f7Qy8GYkzAoKYjJ3iFVEe7ax

The Benefits of Nitrous Oxide in Dental Procedures

September 29, 2025

Anxiety can often prevent individuals from seeking necessary dental care. At Family 1st Dental in Sioux City, the well-being and comfort of patients are paramount. One method employed to alleviate this anxiety is the use of nitrous oxide, commonly referred […]

Learn More