The human tongue has a lot of textures and rough surfaces. All of these contours can sometimes promote bacterial growth and plaque buildup. Denture wearers often benefit from cleaning their tongue because it removes plaque and reduces bad breath.
To remove the plaque, all you need to do is brush your tongue after you have finished brushing your dentures. This should be done with a slow, circular motion and a little non-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure you brush the sides of the tongue and top of your tongue. This will help clear away bacteria and refresh your mouth.
If you’d like, you could try using a tongue scraper. This usually comes in the form of a small, plastic handle with an edge on one end. When using a tongue scraper, you should work from front to back, making multiple overlapping sweeps. If you notice a buildup of material on the blade edge, you should rinse it off before making another pass over your tongue.
Once your tongue has been cleaned, you can rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash because it can also help wash away lingering bacteria and freshen your breath. Any material left in these areas will once again promote plaque formation and bad breath.
If you have questions about how to clean your tongue in Sedona, Arizona, you can always call Sedona Dental Arts at 928-282-1514 to seek further advice from your dentist, Dr. Austin Babcock.