Tongue scraping is trending rapidly on social media these days. People are calling it an easy and effective way to get rid of bad breath. Many videos and posts claim that removing the white coating on the tongue leaves the mouth feeling fresh. But doctors say this practice can be as beneficial as it appears, especially if it's practiced daily and excessively.

How does a tongue scraper work?

A tongue scraper is used to remove dirt, bacteria, and food particles from the upper surface of the tongue. It's said that brushing the tongue pushes bacteria deeper into the crevices, while a scraper removes them. This is why many people consider it more effective. However, according to doctors, tongue scraping daily or with excessive pressure can cause tiny, invisible cuts in the delicate skin of the tongue.

The Hidden Dangers of Tongue Scraping

According to medical studies, these tiny cuts on the tongue become a gateway for bacteria to enter the body. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and, in some cases, cause a serious illness called endocarditis. Endocarditis is a dangerous infection of the inner lining of the heart and heart valves. The mortality rate is reported to be 15% to 30%.

These people are especially at greater risk

Those who already have heart disease, have undergone heart valve replacement,have a pacemaker implanted in their body,
and have weak immunity.

What are the symptoms of endocarditis?

The symptoms of endocarditis often appear gradually, which is why many people don't take it seriously at first. A person with this condition may experience persistent fever, extreme weakness and fatigue, and shortness of breath. In many cases, the heartbeat becomes irregular, swelling in the legs or abdomen occurs, and unexplained weight loss occurs rapidly. Because these symptoms may seem common, people often ignore them, which can lead to the disease becoming more serious over time.

What do doctors recommend?

It's safer to gently clean your tongue with a soft toothbrush.
This removes bacteria and reduces the risk of cuts.
Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential.
Periodic checkups with a dentist are recommended.

What should be the right habit?

The right habit should be to avoid considering just cleaning the tongue as the solution to oral health. If there is persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, or persistent toothache and cavity problems, it could be a sign of gum disease, dental problems, or digestive issues. In such a situation, instead of compromising on health due to trends, it is important to pay attention to complete oral hygiene. Cleanse, but in a safe and proper manner, so that not only the mouth but also the heart remains healthy.

PC:Punjab Kesari