Tongue scraper – a new boom among millennials or a useful beauty procedure

The centuries-old practice is back in fashion. Tongue scrub provides fresher breath and an unrivaled squeaky clean feeling. Read the details in the article

Tongue scraper helps get rid of bacteria / Photo: Collage: Today

In recent weeks, we have noticed that TikTok users have begun to share beauty hacks on how to properly clean the tongue, and the trendy millennial-oriented dental clinics in the world are offering a new product – a tongue scraper, which can be bought from 100 UAH. Why do this and what is the use of such a procedure, we tell in the article.

What is a tongue scraper

To understand the essence of the new beauty boom, it is not worth the trouble, but it becomes clear already from the name. It is worth knowing that to clean the tongue, you need to use a special tool with a curved shape, usually made of stainless steel or silicone. The process of removing deposits and unwanted bacteria from the surface of the tongue is done with this special tool, the tongue scraper.

Tongue Scraper (@terraandco)

Tongue Scraper (@terraandco) / Photo: Instagram

According to an article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, tongue scraping has been practiced for centuries in India and South America. Our ancestors used tools made from materials such as wood, whalebone, and tortoiseshell. Following the ancient Chinese tradition of gua sha facial massage, Westerners are now practicing a new method.

Benefits of tongue cleaning

Dentists unanimously agree that bacteria that are removed by scraping off the tongue can cause cavities and bad breath. The fact is that the tongue has a large area, and the remnants of food easily get stuck on it. Gargling helps, but using a tongue scraper is better.

Adherents of Ayurveda have been practicing tongue cleaning for a long time. First rubbing with a dry brush and then rubbing in oil to help remove any buildup of toxic residue.

Are there any contraindications

In an article for Allure, Mark Lowenberg, MD, dentist, and founder of Lowenberg, Lituchy & Kantor in New York, explained that there is no risk in this practice, and injury and irritation only occur if you scratch your tongue too hard.

Of course, dentists have not yet come to a conclusion and massively do not recommend this practice to daily brushing procedures and obligatory visits to the dentist twice a year. But it won’t be redundant either.

Where to buy a tongue scraper and application technique

Before buying a scraper, you need to know that it is better to use this stainless steel tool, as it is more hygienic than plastic.

Tongue scraper - new beauty routine (@terraandco)

Tongue scraper – new beauty routine (@terraandco) / Photo: Instagram

To clean your tongue properly, start at the back and pull the scraper forward with light pressure. Do this two or three times, rinsing the scraper with warm water between sips. Then rinse your mouth with water to wash away any remaining dirt.

You can buy a tongue scraper on popular retail platforms that offer a lot of beauty and care products. Prices vary from 200 to 1000 UAH.

You will be interested to know when is the best time to brush your teeth: before breakfast or after.

Source: Segodnya

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