Tongue scraping has become the latest trend with widespread acceptance in the realm of oral health, being touted as an easy method to get rid of bad breath by effectively eliminating the bacterial residue on the surface of the tongue. Social networking sites have promoted this trend, with illustrations often supporting the notion that tongue scraping has become a pivotal aspect in maintaining oral health. Although this might result in a tingling sensation in the mouth, suggesting renewed freshness, dental professionals have reported that tongue scraping also entails several risks. According to medical professionals, tongue scraping results in tiny, barely visible cuts on the tender tissue present in the tongue. These cuts allow bacterial infestations in the bloodstream, which might result in life-threatening infections, especially in those with pre-existing heart problems or cardiac pacemakers.
Understanding how tongue scrapers work
A tongue scraper assists in the removal of the plaque, food particles, and bacteria that are found on the top of the tongue. Unlike the process of brushing the tongue, which could lead to the bacteria and particles being pushed back into the grooves of the tongue, the use of a tongue scraper assists in the removal of the particles directly on the surface. It has been hypothesised that the process of scraping could be even more effective in the removal of bacteria than the process of brushing.Although tongue scraping can remedy bacterial infestation and bad breath effectively, it also carries dangers. Patients with heart problems, as well as those with intravascular catheters, must exercise extreme care. Gently washing the tongue, combined with good oral hygiene, remains the safest practice. Prioritising both oral health and overall wellness, good habits place health at the beginning.
Hidden risks of tongue scraping
According to the study published in PubMed Central, although this method has many benefits, there are also severe health threats possibly present in tongue scraping. The small wounds inflicted by the scraping devices are likely to evade the physiological defences in the body and provide an entry point to bacteria, thereby resulting in life-threatening conditions like endocarditis with a mortality rate ranging from 15% to 30%.Documented instances of severe infections associated with aggressive or excessive tongue scraping exist within hospitals. Further, it is suggested that tongue scraping can alter the oral microbial equilibrium, whereas the oral equilibrium of bacteria has the potential to result in oral conditions as well as conditions such as high blood pressure.
What is endocarditis: Its common symptoms and how is it caused
Endocarditis can be described as inflammation resulting from an infection affecting the inner layer of any of the chambers and the valves in the heart, referred to as the endocardium. The infection in most cases originates from bacteria getting into the bloodstream, which adheres to any damaged parts in the heart tissues. Some common signs exhibited by an individual with this health condition are fever, weakness, breathing difficulties, murmurs in the heart, swelling in the legs, swelling in the abdomen, or loss of weight.Though the importance of oral hygiene cannot be underestimated, there are some practices, like cleaning the tongue robustly, that may cause cuts on the surface of the tongue. These cuts may act as an entrance point for the bacteria to enter the bloodstream and finally reach the heart. For people who already have heart conditions and heart valve replacements or compromised immune systems, there may be a risk of endocarditis.Dentists recommend safer methods like the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the tongue gently while also flossing and visiting dentists regularly. This helps in removing food particles and bacteria effectively without resulting in sores. It is vital to have good oral hygiene not only to get fresh breath but also to prevent the heart from being attacked by severe infections like endocarditis.
Safer alternatives for tongue cleaning
As for most individuals, brushing the tongue with a soft-toothbrush is not only a safer method, but it is also an effective alternative. It helps in removing food debris, bacteria, and dead cells. Moreover, it is painless, unlike scraping, which can aid the entry of bacteria from the tongue into the bloodstream. It also helps overcome the sense of false security that is experienced after tongue scraping, where patients might be suffering from other conditions like gum disease, cavities, or digestive problems. Dental health goes beyond just rinsing your tongue. Some of these practices include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Bad dental health, whether it be due to continuous bad breath or any other condition, should not just be checked through tongue-rinsing practices. This is important so that your dental or overall health, cardiovascular included, is not jeopardised.
