You may be brushing your teeth twice a day, using dental floss, and gargling with mouthwash as your family dentist recommends, but you could still be forgetting a major step in caring for your mouth. A reputable dentist like C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry, which has been serving residents of Lorain, OH, for over two decades now, will tell you about the necessity of brushing your tongue too.

Here are some of the reasons why this is important:

• To Prevent Illnesses: Bacteria in your tongue can travel down your throat and cause cold symptoms or strep throat. In rare cases, they may even lead to digestive disorders and ulcers. Bacteria can also enter your bloodstream through the capillaries in your mouth and cause a stroke or heart disease.
• To Prevent Bad Breath: Halitosis, or bad breath, is caused by the buildup of sulfur compounds from bacteria when they break down food particles. These compounds contribute bad breath. Use a toothbrush with firm bristles or a tongue scraper to remove the buildup.
• To Protect Your Teeth: Even after brushing your teeth, they will eventually come into contact with your tongue. If you don’t include brushing your tongue in your oral care routine, bacteria will simply transfer from your tongue back to your teeth.
• To Remove Toxins: While you sleep, your body expels toxins through your tongue. In the morning, those toxins will appear as a yellow or white film on your tongue. Brushing your tongue prevents you from re-absorbing them, protecting your body’s immune system.

If you need to see a reputable dentist for treatments, such as a root canal, visit C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry. They can also handle tooth implants and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Call them at (440) 960-5200 or visit their website to learn more about the practice.