One of the main advantages of tongue scraping is the removal of odour-causing bacteria from the tongue's surface. A 2005 study showed that using a tongue scraper twice a day for a week was significantly more effective than brushing when it came to reducing the amount of Mutans Streptococci and Lactobacilli bacteria in the mouth. These types of bacteria cause bad breath and dental decay.
The Journal of American Dentistry conducted a study that showed a tenfold increase in the number of plaque-forming Streptococci bacteria after only one week of not brushing the tongue. Since Streptococcus mutans is the main culprit behind plaque formation and dental decay, it is crucial to eliminate it from the mouth.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that regular tongue cleaning significantly improved quinine and sodium chloride taste sensitivity. This is because the tongue's rough surface can trap food debris and bacteria, leading to a diminished sense of taste.
Research by Dr Nathan Bryan, a molecular and human genetics specialist from Baylor College of Medicine, found that regular tongue scraping enabled "good oral bacteria" to produce more Nitric Oxide (NO). NO plays a crucial role in helping stem cells function efficiently, which in turn helps to heal the ageing body and regenerate damaged or old cells. Amazingly up to 50% of our daily Nitric Oxide production is from this 'good oral bacteria'.
Your tongue acts as a gateway to your body's inner workings, harboring countless bacteria, food debris, and toxins that accumulate throughout the day. If left unchecked, these harmful substances can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome—a delicate ecosystem of beneficial bacteria that supports digestion and overall health. Removing the unwanted buildup on your tongue's surface, eliminates harmful bacteria and toxins that could otherwise find their way into your digestive system. This reduction of pathogens creates an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive, promoting a healthy gut flora.