Tongue scrapers are exactly what they sound like: something to scrape your tongue. But why? What is the hype all about? Does tongue scrapers for bad breath really matter for your oral health? Since when is tongue scraping a recommendation, and is it really all that important?
Our tongues host billions of bacterial strains, including many that researchers have yet to identify, name, or understand in terms of their effects.
On a related note, maybe you have pesky bad breath that just won’t seem to quit. Did you know that about 90% of bad breath bacteria live on your tongue?
Using the best tongue scrapers is an important part of your home oral hygiene routine. Here are the top 5 choices on the market today and why you should start using one ASAP.
How Do Tongue Scrapers Help Bad Breath?
Do tongue scrapers work? The best tongue scrapers quite literally scrape the tongue’s top surface to remove the buildup of bacteria and food particles hiding inside of your “papillae” (those are the tiny little bumpy things across the top of your tongue. Tongue scraping is a similar technique to brushing and flossing when you think about it! When we brush and floss, we are mechanically removing the plaque and bacteria buildup in our mouth. Tongue scraping is no different!
Often one of the largest contributors to bad breath is excess bacteria build up on the tongue. Those bacteria can accumulate quickly and really start to smell or even taste bad. While bad breath can certainly have many causes—including gum disease or sinus infections—one of the first recommendations your dental hygienist or dentist may suggest is to start using a tongue scraper every day.
Tongue scraping physically removes trapped bacteria that cause a bad breath smell.
While tongue scraping can combat bad breath, it’s still important to rule out other potential causes, including but not limited to issues like acid reflux and GI disorders, bacterial gut overgrowths, sinus infections, allergies, dry mouth, periodontal disease, and more. Talk to your dentist about any bad breath concerns, as they can indicate other oral and systemic health issues that require attention.
Tongue Scraper Plastic vs. Metal
There are a few different versions of tongue scrapers available today. Some of the best tongue scrapers include the following:
- Plastic tongue scrapers: People typically use these as disposable options for one-time use or a few times before discarding them or replacing the head on the scraper handle. While this can be convenient to use, it’s probably my least favorite as it contributes to lots of plastic waste, especially if you don’t have recycling resources in your area. This option tends to be the cheapest of the other options out there.
- Stainless steel tongue scrapers: My favorite type of tongue scraper is the metal tongue scraper design. This option works well for daily use and minimizes environmental impact since you don’t need to discard it after each use. You can scrape your tongue, rinse, and keep reusing it. Please check the label if you have a metal allergy.
- Copper tongue scraper: This design, made out of copper, represents a less popular version of the metal tongue scraper. If you have metal allergies, or sensitivities or are one of those people who love the natural benefits of copper, this one is a great option. It’s important to consider that copper tongue scrapers can be prone to rusting, tarnishing, or discoloration over time.
Most, if not all, metal tongue scrapers are dishwasher safe, making them a great option for multiple uses and decreased waste.
Also Read: Tongue-tie in Babies: A Guide for Parents
5 Best Tongue Scrapers
A tongue scraper can freshen your breath and reduce the overall bacterial levels in your mouth, but how do we choose one over the other? If you’re considering buying a tongue scraper for the first time, here are my top recommended brands.
1. DenTek Orabrush Tongue Cleaner
Grin Disposable Tongue Scrapers are single-use tools that effectively remove bacteria and debris from the tongue to maintain oral hygiene. They provide convenience and hygiene, catering to users who prefer a fresh scraper for each use.
PROS
- Helps with bad breath
- Deep cleaning bristles
- Comfortable design
CONS
- Not as effective on dry tongues
DenTek makes an easy to use and affordable tongue scraper. With some pretty cool built in technology, it stands out from the crowd of tongue scrapers. A surgeon’s scrub brush inspired the design of this particular type of tongue scraper, making it highly effective at removing bacteria buildup.
Features
The DenTek Orabrush tongue scraper has built in soft pointed bristles that help to reach the deepest surfaces on the tongue. This design helps to loosen and remove bacteria and food debris from the bumpy tongue surfaces. Instructions are simple: just angle the scraper up and gently pull it in a forward motion to properly remove filmy buildup. DenTek recommends that you replace your tongue scraper every 3-4 months to ensure it is still effectively removing bacteria.
Final Thought
With small bristles to help catch bacteria and debris buildup, the DenTek Orabrush tongue scraper is a great option to keep your tongue clean and fresh. If you are looking for a semi-disposable best tongue scrapers option, this may be the one. You can find the DenTek Orabrush online or in major retailer stores like Walmart and CVS at about $5-$7 per pack. This option is affordable and very effective.
2.Grin Disposable Tongue Scrapers
Grin Disposable Tongue Scrapers are single-use tools designed for maintaining oral hygiene by effectively removing bacteria and debris from the tongue. They are convenient and hygienic, catering to users who prefer a fresh scraper for each use.
PROS
- Hygienic & disposable
- Effective on the go cleaning
- Convenient for travel
CONS
- Not environmental friendly
Now come the disposable tongue scrapers. But don’t worry. Manufacturers make these using 100% recyclable plastic! Grin values both your tongue health and the planet, so you can recycle your tongue scrapers once they start to wear out.
Key Features
Grin designs tongue scrapers for one-time use, making them simple to use. Similar to floss picks, the Grin tongue scraper is smaller than other tongue scrapers on the market. One pack of these tongue scrapers comes with 32 uses and is a great option for both traveling or everyday use!
Final Thought
If you’re looking for a quick, easy-to-use, affordable, and recycled flosser, Grin covers your needs! Keep them in your purse, desk, or car; just be sure to dispose of them responsibly!
3. The Original Kids TUNG Brush
The Original Kids TUNG Brush is designed specifically for children’s oral hygiene, featuring a smaller brush head tailored for young mouths and effectively cleaning the tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
PROS
- Child-friendly design
- Encourages good oral hygiene habits
- Gentle bristles
CONS
- Regular replacement needed
The OG of tongue scrapers for kids is the TUNG brush! This is one of the very first tongue scrapers made specifically for children, and it’s been quite the hit with kiddos and parents alike. TUNG proudly supports tongue scraping part of a 3-step routine of oral hygiene: floss, brush, and scrape your tongue!
Key Features
The TUNG brush is a great way to motivate kiddos to start and keep a good routine when it comes to oral hygiene. Especially since some kids really struggle with bad breath. TUNG is passionate about children’s oral health and encourages parents to introduce tongue cleaning at a young age (with proper supervision, of course). Firm bristles on the rounded head help trap and remove bacteria films from the tongue’s surface. The sleek design is made to help reduce the gag reflex and improve patient comfort with use. Also, a little practice never hurts anybody! Over time, your tongue can become desensitized, and you may be able to reduce your gag reflex altogether. Starting at a young age can make all the difference. That being said, it’s important to be sure you supervise young ones when using this device to avoid any possibility of soft tissue trauma to the throat or choking.
Final Thought
The TUNG brush scraper can be found online and at some major retailers. It’s often sold alongside the TUNG gel (which they make to use before tongue scraping.) The antibacterial gel helps to loosen and fight disease-causing bacteria so that it’s easier to remove with the brush. Do you have a little one at home with bad breath that just will not go away? Perhaps the TUNG brush is all they need!
4. Amazing Oralcare Tongue Scraper
The Amazing Oralcare Deep Clean Tongue Scraper is a dual-ended tongue cleaner designed to enhance oral hygiene. It features a unique combination of a flat edge and a serrated edge, both made from 100% medical-grade stainless steel. This tool is engineered to effectively remove bacteria and debris from the tongue, contributing to fresher breath and improved oral health.
PROS
- Dual-ended design
- Medical-grade stainless steel
- Suitable for sensitive gag reflex
CONS
- No bristles
The Amazing OralCare Deep Clean Tongue Scraper is a top-of-the-line choice for those seeking a superior alternative to the conventional plastic tongue scraper. Its innovative double-ended design includes a flat edge and a unique serrated edge, crafted from 100% medical-grade stainless steel. This feature sets it apart from typical plastic tongue scrapers, offering enhanced durability and effectiveness.
Key Features
This tongue scraper is an industry first, seamlessly combining the benefits of a dual-action tongue cleaner with the efficiency of metal. Its serrated surface is especially advantageous for those with a sensitive gag reflex, enabling gentle yet comprehensive cleaning. Crafted from medical-grade stainless steel, this scraper is guaranteed to be rust-proof and safe for oral use.
Final Thought
Priced at just $6.99 for two, the Amazing Oralcare Deep Clean Tongue Scraper is not only affordable but also a practical investment for your oral health. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade from plastic tongue cleaners to something more robust and hygienic, without triggering a sensitive gag reflex. Plus, its lifetime guarantee assures long-term quality and satisfaction.
5. Mastermedi Tongue Scraper
The Mastermedi Tongue Scraper is a durable oral hygiene tool designed to effectively remove bacteria and buildup from the tongue. Typically made from stainless steel, it’s crafted for long-term use and is a popular choice for those seeking a robust, efficient tongue cleaning solution.
PROS
- 100% stainless steel
- Grip friendly handles
- Ergonomic design
CONS
- Not suitable for individuals with metal allergies
The Mastermedi tongue scraper has earned its name as the master when it comes to tongue scrapers. No, seriously, have you checked these bad boys out on Amazon?! With over 98 THOUSAND 4.6+ star reviews, users are seriously happy with this reusable product. I mean, if a tongue scraper is worth a review from that many users, it’s worth looking into in my opinion!
Key Features
The Mastermedi tongue scraper is a 100% stainless steel based tongue scraper that is non-toxic and safe for use on children and adults. The stainless steel makeup is very durable and provides many uses without wear and tear! Plus, you can pop it into the dishwasher when you need to clean it. With grip friendly handles, this U- shaped metal scraper is ideal as it can bend and be turned into positions to fully clean the entire tongue.
Final Thought
This tongue scraper is sold in packs of 2 for around $10. The price can fluctuate a bit depending on retailers. With an easy to use ergonomic design and no need to toss it after each use, the Mastermedi is a great option for anyone who wants to improve their oral health, reduce bad breath causing bacteria, and have a durable, reusable device.
Benefits Of Scraping Your Tongue
So, is all the hype about tongue scraping really worth it? Are the best tongue scrapers a total gimmick? I am here to tell you as a dental hygienist and patient myself, I can attest to the benefits of an effective tongue scraper. I actually cannot believe I went over 20 years without scraping my tongue, and the thought alone makes me want to gag a little. No pun intended! But don’t just trust me, follow the science on the effects of tongue scraping.
Plenty of research has been done to review the benefits of tongue scraping as part of your home hygiene routine. Some of the best benefits you can get from tongue scraping include:
1. Reduced bad breath
Odor causing bacteria thrive on the tongue. It gets stuck makes a home in the fuzzy carpet-like surface, and doesn’t leave unless you make it! When you remove the film of bacteria, you take bad odors with it!
2. Improve sense of taste
By removing any filmy residue off the top of your tongue, you free up the taste buds underneath! If they’re covered up by filmy debris and bacteria, they cannot function as well and can change your taste perception! Scrape your tongue and your tastebuds will thank you!
3. Reduce overall bacterial levels in the mouth
One of the most obvious benefits when you remove bacteria from your tongue is that you have LESS bacteria in your mouth. While we can certainly never sterilize our mouths, it is important to remove the harmful, disease-causing, bad breath inducing germs!
What Should You Consider?
Here are a few things to think about whenever you’re choosing the tongue scraper with the best fit for you and your mouth!
- Material: Whether you have a personal preference or an allergy, knowing what your tongue scraper is made of and what you need is essential. Always read the labels carefully! Metal scrapers last longer, but you should recycle plastic ones.
- Type of tongue cleaner: The design of your tongue scraper of choice is crucial to proper everyday use. If you have a strong gag reflex, you may want to avoid the bulky options and look for a slimmer handle that can easily reach the back of the tongue without feeling like a mouthful!
- Easy to clean: Most tongue scrapers are dishwasher safe, some need special cleaning, and others you just toss. This is another personal preference you should consider when deciding what the best tongue scraper option is for you and your family. If you prefer disposable designs, choose recyclable options. If you prefer metal, check the specific cleaning instructions, as some require different cleaning methods than others.
- Price: In general, you won’t have too much of a problem with the high cost of a tongue scraper. They are effective and simple tools that will typically stay well below a $15 price tag, regardless of the one you choose.
Tongue Scraping Recap
While the old school ways of brushing and flossing are certainly the most crucial component of your oral hygiene routine, tongue scraping takes your oral health and fresh breath to the next level. As more research supports the use of tongue scrapers in your home oral hygiene routine, more patients and providers are discussing the positive benefits of these devices. That being said, it’s best to rule out other potential health concerns or dental conditions that might be causing bad breath. After addressing those, focus on finding the best tongue scrapers to eliminate bad breath for good! Using a tongue scraper for the first time will astonish you with what you discover. I’m serious!
Also Read: 6 Best Oral Probiotics For Bad Breath & Gum Disease
