Should Your Child Clean Their Tongue?

When it comes to your child’s oral hygiene, brushing and flossing usually get most of the attention. However, the tongue is often overlooked, even though it plays an important role in oral health. So, should children clean their tongue? The answer is yes, and here’s why it matters. 

The mouth contains billions of bacteria at any given time. While many of these microorganisms are beneficial and help protect teeth, maintain fresh breath, and support digestion, others are harmful. Scientists have identified over 700 species of bacteria in the oral cavity, forming what is known as the oral microbiome. Harmful bacteria can contribute to bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and even systemic health problems. Because bacteria easily accumulate on the tongue—especially between taste buds—cleaning it is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. 

One major benefit of tongue cleaning is the reduction of harmful bacteria that regular brushing may miss. This can help prevent bad breath, cavities, and gum inflammation. Tongue cleaning also supports digestion, as digestion begins in the mouth. Cleaning the tongue, particularly in the morning, helps activate salivary enzymes that aid in breaking down food, promoting better digestion throughout the day. 

Additionally, teaching children to clean their tongue encourages complete oral hygiene habits. Children can see and feel the difference between a clean and coated tongue, making oral care more engaging and effective. 

Tongue cleaning can be done gently using a regular toothbrush for about 30 seconds after brushing teeth. Older children may use a tongue scraper under supervision. This simple habit can greatly contribute to your child’s long-term oral health and a brighter smile. 

Your Saraswati Dental College team is here to help! 

We are proud to be well-known pediatric dental experts in Saraswati Dental College and Hospital. We are here to help you and your child adjust to their new world of dentist visits in any way that we can. If you think it would be helpful to introduce your child to our team before their appointment, please let us know and we are happy to make that happen. You and your child are in great hands with our trusted team and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. If you’re ready to schedule your child’s visit, let’s get started!