Why is tongue cleaning important?
Dentists say that a healthy smile and fresh breath start on the tongue. Cleaning the tongue helps to target the cause of bad breath and will also help to remove bacteria and food debris.
It is natural for bacteria to multiply in the oral cavity due to the food and drinks we consume, and most of these bacteria do not cause bad breath. However, bacteria that do not use oxygen in their metabolism (so-called anaerobic bacteria) create a white layer on the tongue and are the main culprit for bad breath.
What is the reason for a white or yellow coated tongue?
In addition to the tongue, harmful bacteria also occur between the teeth and in the periodontal pockets. These bacteria create a mucous layer that covers them and protects them from oxygen. In such an environment, bad breath causes sulfur-producing bacteria.
The yellow tongue is most often a consequence of the multiplication of bacteria in the oral cavity due to constant breathing in the mouth during sleep. This problem can also occur during pregnancy and then is a consequence of hormonal changes in the body.
What causes morning breath?
The amount of saliva produced is greatest during the waking hours of the day and diminishes dramatically during sleep, so this is an ideal base for the development of bacteria.
Anaerobic bacteria, which most often cause bad breath, do not like water because it contains oxygen. If a person often breathes through the mouth during sleep, it creates an almost ideal medium for the multiplication of these bacteria.
What causes a coated tongue?
Coffee, acidic foods, and alcohol-based mouthwashes cause the progress of these harmful bacteria because they dry out the mouth and reduce the pH value. People who do not drink enough fluids are more likely to have problems with bacteria and bad breath.
What is the proper way to clean your tongue?
Brushes with a rough surface on the back are not as effective because that rough surface is not large enough and cannot remove harmful deposits thoroughly. Instead, get a special cleaner to remove bacteria and the white layer from the tongue.
Most of the bacteria are on the inside of the tongue, so pay more attention to it. Repeat the movement several times to remove these layers as thoroughly as possible.
You will notice that after cleaning, the tongue has regained its natural color and that the white deposits are gone. You can further clean your tongue with toothpaste and rinse with non-alcoholic mouthwash.
If you have any questions regarding proper dental care or want to schedule an examination, we are waiting for you in Belgrade at 3 Trstenjakova Street. You can also contact us by phone and schedule your check-up.