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What do you focus on during your daily oral hygiene routine? Although most people focus on cleaning their teeth and checking their gums, the tongue is a powerful part of the dental health equation, which is why family dentists recommend cleaning it too. Here are a few interesting facts about the human tongue, and what you can do to keep it healthy. 

Interesting Facts About the Human Tongue

1. Tongues Accumulate Bacteria Too 

Although your tongue might look smooth at first glance, it is covered with up to 10,000 taste buds, creating thousands of microscopic cracks and crevices where bacteria and food particles can seek shelter. Over time, the tongue can develop its own biofilm, consisting of groups of microorganisms that can cause problems, like bad breath and tooth decay. Fortunately, you can eliminate some of these bacteria and break up this biofilm by brushing your tongue along with the rest of your teeth. 

2. Tongues Are Longer Than You Think 

family dentistTongues can measure as long as four inches from the base of the tongue to the tip, which means there is quite a bit of surface area to clean during your daily oral care routine. Fortunately, tongue scrapers are easy-to-use and incredibly effective. With a thin, flexible blade and a convenient handle, scrapers are designed to be dragged across the tongue to remove film. In fact, studies have shown that it can remove as much as 75% of volatile sulfuric compounds, which are the microscopic organisms that cause bad breath. 

3. Healthy Tongues Help the Teeth Stay Clean

Cleaning your tongue also helps it to stay healthier, which in turn, helps your mouth to stay more sanitary. Family dentists explain that healthy tongues can help you to detect and remove stuck food particles and surface grime, improving your overall oral health. 

 

The steps that need to be taken to improve oral health are different for everyone, so don’t hesitate to meet with your family dentist. At Dental Clinic of Onalaska, Dr. Mike Olsen works with every patient to create a completely customized treatment plan and recommended daily hygiene routine, improving your dental health. To learn more about this Wisconsin family dentist, visit his website or give the office a call at (608) 783-3341.

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