This article explains why you should clean your tongue.

• The tongue is rough. Food, plaque and germs get trapped on it.
• A dirty tongue is a main cause of bad breath.
• Gum, mints and mouthwash only hide bad breath. Cleaning the tongue fixes it.

Why clean your tongue

• Less bad breath.
• Helps prevent thrush (a fungal infection) and other tongue problems.
• Helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Germs spread from the tongue to the teeth.
• May help lower the risk of heart problems.
• Food tastes better.

Key points

• Mouth care has 3 parts: brushing, flossing and tongue cleaning.
• Clean your tongue twice a day with a tongue cleaner.