7 Reasons to Use a Tongue Scraper and Our Top Picks

Tongue scraping is an old Ayurvedic practice recently revived in the dental world due to its numerous health benefits. A tongue scraper is a tiny plastic or metal device that scrubs the tongue to manually remove dead cells, food debris and bacteria from the tongue. It scrubs away the bacteria that cause bad breath, cavities and gum diseases and freshens the breadth. 

Tongue scrapers are available in various shapes and sizes; one must choose the most convenient. However, it must be used with brushing and flossing, not as a substitute.

Seven reasons to choose a tongue scraper 

Tongue scraping, particularly when combined with brushing, offers several health benefits. It removes the pathogenic bacteria and debris on which these bacteria feed. The most important reasons why the dentists suggest a tongue scraper are;

Removal of pathogenic bacteria from the tongue surface

Brushing, rinsing, and flossing remove some bacteria, but the bacterial films are not removed, and bacteria beyond the superficial layers continue to linger. 

A clinical trial study by Vinícius Pedrazzi (University of São Paulo, Brazil) concluded that tongue scraping achieved a 75% reduction in pathogenic bacterial load compared to just a 45% reduction by tooth brushing alone. The bacteria most commonly associated with dental decay and bad breath, e.g., Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans, are specifically removed.

Removal of debris from mouth

Very often, the debris from food particles and dead cells accumulates, forming a whitish coating on the tongue's surface. This film harbours the germs that cause mouth infections. Regular tongue scraping improves oral hygiene by removing this layer.

The tongue scrapers' mechanical action and surface adhesion collect the dislodged food particles, preventing them from re-depositing anywhere in the mouth.

Bad Breath Relief

Bad breath occurs due to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue surface. It negatively impacts a person’s self-esteem and social relationships. Various clinical studies have shown that regular tongue scraping reduces the bacterial buildup on the tongue, which causes bad breath. For example, a systematic review by Professor Van Der Sleen and colleagues at the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, confirmed the potential mechanical tongue scraping to reduce foul odour and tongue coating.

An effective scrapping process removes bacterial buildup in one or two scoops and removes bacterial films. A toothbrush also does the job. However, the unique shape of the tongue scraper is more effective in doing so.

Boosting the oral immunity

The tongue is the first point where everything entering the mouth contacts first. Thus, it has a vital place in the overall immune system of the oral cavity. If bacteria develop and make films on the tongue, the way becomes open to invade further into the body. Regular scrapping ensures that the bacteria are eliminated before the development of resistant films and thus serves as a mechanical aid to the immune system.

If an oral disease is established, the immune system is already weak. In that case, tongue scraping becomes even more necessary as it removes the extra specks of bacteria from the tongue and prevents them from further invading the body.

Better digestion 

Most people thought digestion to be a function of the stomach. However, it starts in the digestive system's first compartment, i.e., the mouth. The enzymes present in the saliva, i.e., salivary amylase, break the starch present in the food.

Tongue scraping improves digestion by removing dangerous bacteria from the mouth, stimulating the secretion and flow of saliva, improving taste perception and promoting mindful eating practices. A cross-over study in Japan showed significant improvement in oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and constipation due to regular tongue scraping.

Better tooth and gum health 

Tongue scraping combined with flossing and brushing removes the bacteria responsible for plaque, tooth decay and gum diseases. Scrapping is one of the most effective ways to ensure good dental and oral hygiene. 

Boosting the overall health and wellness 

The tongue aids the immune system by preventing the production and absorption of toxins. As good oral hygiene is an essential element of overall health, regular tongue scraping is one of the most effective ways to boost overall health and wellness.

Our Best Picks for Tongue Scrapers 

We have listed the best tooth scrapers in the market to facilitate the selection. These products are evaluated based on quality, value for money and user reviews. The best products that satisfied our criteria are;

Product summary

Best Overall: Cafhelp Two-Pack Tongue Scraper:  Best value for money: Dr Tung's Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper Best product with bristles: GUM Sunstar Dual Action Tongue Scraper and Cleaner Brush Best Stainless Steel Scraper: MasterMedi Tongue Scraper Best product with an ergonomic handle: BOKA Rosana Tongue Cleaner Best for kids: Peak Essentials The Original Kids TUNG Brush Best disposable device: Grin Oral Care Tongue Cleaner

Best Overall: Cafhelp Two-Pack Tongue Scraper

Price & availability: £16.79 (buy Cafhelp Two-Pack Tongue Scraper at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.6/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.8/ 5

Pros	Cons
Large size that reaches the back of mouth Economical Double-sided.	Often triggers gag reflex

Why do we choose it?: This scrubber comes in very economical two-device packaging. The head is very compact and is made of 100% pure surgical-grade stainless steel. The efficient design of the head allows the scrapping of all areas of the tongue up to the end. The head is curved on one side to remove the debris effectively and smooth on the other for a gentle experience.

Experience the difference with our top-rated tongue scraper – say goodbye to bad breath and hello to a cleaner mouth today!

Best value for money: Dr Tung's Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper 

Price & availability: £21.31 for a pack of 2 (buy Dr Tung's Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.6/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.7/ 5

Pros	Cons
Ergonomic handle Easy cleaning Has a travel case	Moderate size, often hard to reach the back of your mouth.

Why do we choose it?: Its comfortable handles allow easy adjustment of the scrapper's angle according to the mouth. The brand boosts its quality and claims to be the dentist's number 1 recommendation. Its curved and stainless steel bar allows the scrapping of the whole width of the tongue from the front to the back and effectively removes debris and bacteria. The metallic scrubber is easy to clean using toothpaste and doesn't develop a strong odour over time. The availability of travel pouches is an additional bonus.

Don't let oral hygiene be an afterthought – invest in our premium tongue scraper for a fresher, healthier mouth.

Best product with bristles: GUM Sunstar Dual Action Tongue Scraper and Cleaner Brush 

Price & availability: £12.61 (buy GUM Sunstar Dual Action Tongue Scraper and Cleaner Brush at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.6/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.8/ 5

Pros	Cons
Has scrubbing bristles. Has a narrow head that targets deep areas of the mouth. Doesn't give a metallic taste.	Bit expensive

Why do we choose it?: This plastic scraper is fitted with textured nubs and smaller bristles and effectively removes the debris from the mouth. Its smooth scraping side is more effective in removing the bad breath-causing bacteria than the backside of the toothbrush. It's made of plastic and is best for people who dislike metallic taste. However, it needs more rapid replacement than metallic devices. The long handle allows the head to reach faraway areas of the mouth, while the narrow head prevents gagging. 

Ready to elevate your oral care routine? Try our innovative tongue scraper and feel the difference for yourself!

Best Stainless Steel Product: MasterMedi Tongue Scraper 

Price & availability: £5.89 (buy MasterMedi Tongue Scraper at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.5/ 5

Pros	Cons
Has a travel case Can be bent to target specific areas of the mouth.	Too wide for some users

Why do we choose it?: This pack of metallic scrappers is a good choice for people who like metallic devices. Made with medical-grade stainless steel, these scrappers remove the white film from the entire tongue with a gentle U-shaped design. The company provides travel cases which allow a person to keep one scrapper as a travel partner. It has steel handles and is bendable to target far away areas of the tongue. It is, however, a wider scrapper, and the people with smaller mouths find it uncomfortable. 

Join thousands of satisfied customers who have discovered the benefits of our effective tongue scraper – order yours now!

Best product with an ergonomic handle: BOKA Rosana Tongue Cleaner

Price & availability: £10.00 (buy BOKA Rosana Tongue Cleaner at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.7/ 5 (based on thousands of reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.5/ 5

Pros	Cons
Has a thick handle for easy handling Various subscription options available	Smaller length

Why do we choose it?:The thick handles in this scrapper provide a solid grip to scrub effectively with the U-shaped metallic scrubber. Its curved shape offers a gentle experience and effectively removes harmful breath-causing bacteria, while Its smaller length improves its ability to give a deep clean-up to the tongue's end. It has a lower risk of gag reflex and comes with a linen pouch for safe storage. The company offers various subscription plans that save money. However, regular replacement is strongly advised.  

Take the first step towards better oral health with our trusted tongue scraper – your mouth will thank you!

Best for kids: Peak Essentials The Original Kids TUNG Brush 

Price & availability: ‎ £12.99 (Buy Peak Essentials The Original Kids TUNG Brush at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.5/ 5 (based on 107 reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.5/ 5

Pros	Cons
Small size for kids' mouths Smooth bristles for effective cleaning, Funny colours	Offers less deep cleaning

Why do we choose it?: It is designed for children who experience bad breath. These scrappers are designed to adjust to their smaller mouths without struggling. Dentists support its use, and according to the CDC, regular tongue brushing reduces the occurrence of cavities in minors. It is similar to the toothbrush and has small bristles on the head, ensuring a smooth and pleasant scrubbing experience. The gel or toothpaste can be added to remove the odours. However, remind the children to wash their mouths thoroughly after using it. 

Best disposable device: Grin Oral Care Tongue Cleaner  

Price & availability: £8.33 (buy Grin Oral Care Tongue Cleaner at Amazon UK)

User review: 4.6/ 5 (based on 372 reviews at Amazon UK)

Welzo review: 4.5/ 5

Pros	Cons
Very long and reaches the back of the tongue Has a built-in toothpick	Less sustainable.

Why do we choose it?: This plastic scraper offers the same degree of scrubbing as others. They are cheap and can be disposed of after use. Its 8-inch length removes bad breath by gently removing bacteria from the back of the tongue. They have an adaptable toothpick with each of the scrappers. Although disposable, they are made of recyclable plastic. 

Make every day a fresh start for your mouth with our reliable tongue scraper – order now and experience the difference firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which is the most common reason for using tongue scrapers? 

Halitosis or bad breath is the most crucial reason dentists recommend the tongue scraper. Some dentists recommend it to treat bad breath; however, mouthwashes, e.g., Listerine, are more effective for this purpose, according to others.

In case someone wants to give mouthwashes a chance, we have summarised the information about the best 13 mouthwashes in a must-read article. Visit our page to read it.

What are the other names for a tongue scraper? 

The tongue scraper is also known as the tongue cleaner or tongue brush. It is an oral healthcare device that removes the coating of bacteria and germs on the tongue's upper surface.

What are the side effects of tongue scrapers? 

The most common side effect is the stimulation of the gag reflex, mainly if the device is pushed too far back along the tongue. Too much aggressive scrapping causes bleeding and damages the papillae that cover the tongue's surface and are involved in the taste sensation.

Which tongue scraper is the best? 

Choosing the best tongue scraper is a matter of personal choices and depends upon personal health goals to some extent. The best products in our listing overall are Cafhelp Two-Pack Tongue Scraper, Dr Tung's Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper and GUM Sunstar Dual Action Tongue Scraper and Cleaner Brush.  

Which is better? Tongue brush or tongue scraper? 

Both devices are good at removing the coating on the tongue's surface. The tongue scraper is, however, a better choice. A tongue brush provides better cleaning coverage and removes bacteria more effectively than a tongue scraper.

Are tongue scrapers safe to use? 

It is safe for most of the users. However, people with intravascular devices, e.g., pacemakers and abnormal heart valves, must avoid metallic devices. The same holds for people with cardiac wall defects and infective endocarditis.

Bottom-line 

Incorporating tongue scraping into the oral care routine offers numerous health benefits, such as lower bacterial buildup, better taste perception, and fresher odour-free breath. Various options are available in the market, from plastic to copper and stainless steel scrapers, and choosing the best is easier than ever.
A suitable tongue scraper is always available whether a person prioritises eco-friendliness, ease of use or durability. Choosing the best products among these options improves oral hygiene and boosts overall well-being.

Oral healthcare needs a comprehensive approach, and professional guidance often becomes necessary. Don't hesitate to start consultation with Welzo dentists for Healthy Mouth Care.