Tongue scraping is defined as "the process of removing debris from the surface of the tongue with some form of scraper designed for this purpose".As a result of tongue scraping there is a reduction in halitosis,gingival disease and tooth decay..Most tongue scrapers are made of soft flexible plastic..A soft toothbrush may also be used for this purpose..
Techniques:
1.Brushing:
a.Place the sides of the brush on the dorsum of the tongue with the tip directed towards the throat..
b.Apply light pressure and move the brush forward and out,repeat to cover the entire surface..
2.Tongue cleaning devices:
a.Tongue cleaning devices are available in various designs.They may be flexible or rigid..
b.Device is placed towards the back of the tongue on the dorsal surface,then pulled forward with a light pressure..
c.They can be recommended for patients when they have elongated papillae,deep fissures or surface coating.
Cleaning the tongue in the way mentioned in your article is the norm in India and with Indians everywhere. Lots of my colleagues and friends in UK argue with me that there no need to clean the tongue. I would never feel I had a clean mouth if I did not clean my tongue as well.
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