### Benefits of Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, and Mouthwashes for Tongue Cleaning Cleaning your tongue can help you stay fresh-breathed and lower your chances of getting cavities. You can choose to use a tongue scraper, a toothbrush, or an oral rinse to get the job done. Studies suggest cleaning your tongue regularly can reduce unwanted mouth bacteria that can lead to bad breath, a coated tongue, plaque buildup, and other oral health conditions. #### Tongue Scrapers Research says tongue scrapers are the most effective tool to use. They can eliminate bacteria on the tongue more effectively than toothbrushes. A 2006 review found that tongue scrapers and cleaners were more effective than toothbrushes in reducing the volatile sulfur compounds that cause breath odors. A 2004 study in the Journal of Periodontology concluded that using a tongue scraper helped reduce volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath by 75 percent. **How to Use a Tongue Scraper:** 1. Stick out your tongue. 2. Place the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue. 3. Gently pull it forward, scraping the surface of your tongue. 4. Rinse the scraper and repeat as needed. #### Toothbrushes Although using a toothbrush may be less effective than using a tongue scraper, you may find it easier to use — especially if you’re already brushing your teeth twice a day. A 2013 study of plaque in children found that regular tongue cleaning by either a toothbrush or scraper reduced plaque levels. **How to Use a Toothbrush for Tongue Cleaning:** 1. After brushing your teeth, use your toothbrush to gently brush your tongue. 2. Start at the back and move forward. 3. Rinse your mouth with water. #### Mouthwashes Mouth rinses — especially when combined with toothbrushing — can help clean your tongue and other parts of your mouth. Consider using a therapeutic mouthwash containing active ingredients to destroy bacteria in your mouth that may cause bad breath and other conditions. **How to Use Mouthwash:** 1. Pour the recommended amount of mouthwash into a cup. 2. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute. 3. Spit it out and avoid eating or drinking for a few minutes. Whether you use a tongue scraper, toothbrush, or oral mouth rinse, tongue cleaning is a good addition to your daily oral health practices. Cleaning your tongue once or twice a day may help you reduce bad breath and the risk of cavities as well as contribute to a clean-mouth feeling.