Why Your Tongue Turns White and 8 Ways to Get Rid of It

4. Improve your oral hygiene.

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Maintaining good oral hygiene through careful cleaning is logical and simple, yet crucial for reducing bacteria buildup and preventing dental issues. Bacteria begin accumulating in the mouth immediately after cleaning, so regular sessions are necessary to keep microbes at bay. An ideal oral hygiene routine involves several important steps that should be performed at least twice daily - in the morning and before bedtime after meals: Brush teeth thoroughly - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brushing all surfaces of the teeth for two minutes. Proper brushing helps remove plaque and food debris. Clean the tongue - Use a tongue scraper or brush to gently scrape away the white/yellow coating on the tongue's surface caused by bacteria, fungi, and dead cells. Be sure to clean from the back to the front of the tongue. Use dental floss - Flossing dislodges trapped food particles and disrupts plaque between teeth that brushing alone cannot reach. Oral irrigation (optional) - Using an oral irrigator can help dislodge hard-to-reach debris with a pressurized stream of water. Rinse with mouthwash - An antiseptic mouthwash helps kill remaining bacteria and freshen breath after brushing. For those who have a sensitive gag reflex when cleaning the back of the tongue, go slowly and gently. Don't neglect this area, as it harbors bacteria. Over time the reflex may diminish. Sticking to this oral care regimen twice per day supports a cleaner mouth environment and can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other issues. Consistent, thorough cleaning is key for optimal oral and overall health.