From Gwyneth to Kourtney Kardashian: How tongue scraper became Hollywood's latest health craze

The tongue scraper has been a staple of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.

However, it wasn't until recently that the tongue cleaner became popular in the West, thanks to celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kourtney. So, what exactly is this device? Why did the stars decide to start using them? Let's dig into the trend, and learn more about it:

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What is a tongue scraper?

Good for oral hygiene (Image via Pexels/Karolina Grabwoska)

A tongue scraper is a small, flat piece of plastic or metal you use to scrape the tongue clean. It has a handle and is used to scrape the tongue in the morning and evening (or whenever you feel like it).

It's important not only for good oral hygiene but also for overall health as well. The bacteria found on the tongue can contribute greatly towards bad breath or halitosis, so keeping it clean is key.

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Benefits of tongue scraping

1) Removes bacteria and debris

The rough surface of the tongue can harbor bacteria, food debris and dead cells, which can lead to bad breath and other oral health problems. Using a tongue scraper can help remove these substances, leaving the mouth feeling cleaner and fresher.

2) Improves taste

When the tongue is coated with bacteria and debris, it can interfere with your sense of taste. By removing these substances with tongue scraping, you may notice an improvement in your ability to taste food and beverages.

3) Promotes overall health

Promotes overall well-being. (Image via Pexels/Sarah Chai)

Research suggests that the bacteria on the tongue can contribute to systemic inflammation and other health problems. By removing this bacteria with tongue scraping, you may help promote overall health and well-being.

4) Enhances oral hygiene

Using a tongue scraper as part of your daily oral hygiene routine can complement brushing and flossing by removing bacteria and debris from a different area of the mouth. That can help prevent cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues.

Overall, tongue scraping can be a simple and effective way to improve oral hygiene and promote overall health.

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How to use a tongue scraper?

So, are you ready to start tongue-scraping? Here's how it works:

• After you brush your teeth, scrape the scraper from back to front (not side-to-side). Repeat till the mouth is clean.
• Don't use it too often, or you could damage your gums and soft tissues in the mouth.

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Do tongue scrapers work?

Maintains oral health (Image via Pexels/Arvind Philomin)

Yes, it does work and can be an effective tool for improving oral health. A tongue scraper is a simple, handheld tool that removes harmful bacteria from the surface of the tongue.

When used regularly, it can help reduce bad breath, improve sense of taste, and promote overall oral hygiene. It works by gently scraping the surface of the tongue, removing bacteria and food particles that can lead to bad breath and other oral health problems.

However, it's important to note that tongue scraping should not be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing but rather as an additional tool to supplement your oral hygiene routine. So, if you're looking to improve your oral health, it may be a worthwhile investment.

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You can find these scrapers online or at most drug stores. If you want to get fancy, there are even stainless steel versions that come with a travel case. The important thing is that you pick one up and start cleaning.