You never forget to brush your teeth and gums every day. You do it after meals and before going to bed. In fact, these two practices have become a part of your routine that you never go through the day without brushing or flossing at least once. But what about the tongue? How do you keep your tongue clean? Do you brush it regularly too?

There are more than 700 different types of bacteria in the mouth. Some of these bacteria are good for the health while those unhealthy ones settle and thrive in the small bumps on the tongue. The papillae become the breeding ground for bacteria that cause gingivitis, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. But is brushing the tongue a necessary step in keeping out dental health in excellent condition? Here are five reasons why you should have known better:

Avoid Having the Furry Tongue

Colored food and drinks can cause stains on the teeth. While it may not be very noticeable, this food and beverages also cause the discoloration of the tongue making it look furry and dark. However, such stain can easily be dealt with by gently scrubbing the tongue with the toothbrush. Remember to be gentle as you do the stroking of the tongue to help remove the food particles left on it without causing damages to the buds.

Save Yourself From Halitosis

Did you know that bacteria that settles at the back of your tongue thrives on the food particles and beverages that is left there? This type of bacteria that settles is the one that causes halitosis or a case of bad breath. After thoroughly brushing the teeth, it is time to gently put the brush towards the back part of the tongue and brush it slowly to remove the nasty bacteria from the surface. Using mouthwash could also help get rid of such bacteria before it causes you any more trouble.

Gum Disease is Caused by Bacteria That Settles On the Tongue

Bacteria on the mouth can mix with the acid and sugar in the food that you eat. This combination can be deadly for the teeth and the gums as it envelops with a plaque that causes severe damages. Daily brushing and flossing may help reduce the bacteria, but seeing your dentist for regular dental cleaning should do the job. Dental cleaning is not just to help achieve the beautiful smile, but it also helps protect the teeth and the gums from plaque and cavities.

Is tongue brushing necessary? It is when you want to keep your teeth, gums and overall oral health in good shape.