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Updated on November 27, 2023
8 min read

Best Tongue Scrapers

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Everything We Recommend

Best Overall Mastermedi

Runner Up Basic Concepts

Best on a BudgetThinkprice

For Sensitive TonguesOrabrush

Best for Bad BreathKeeko

Best Brush and Scraper Duo GUM

Best for Kids 55Dental

Best for White Tongue Snow

Best Disposable Grin Oral Care

9 Best Tongue Cleaners (+ Where to Buy)

Some of the best dentist recommended tongue cleaners include:

Mastermedi

Best Overall
Mastermedi tongue scraper

This tongue scraper is highly rated with over 38,000 reviews. It has a 100% stainless steel curved shape scraper to effectively remove debris. The U shaped tongue scraper makes it easy to use, which helps reduce the risk of gagging. The device is also very durable. 

It comes with a travel case and is perfect for on-the-go. The Mastermedi is also cost effective.

Basic Concepts

Runner Up
basic concepts tongue scraper

This is a patient friendly tongue scraper because of its non-slip comfort grip and extra wide, curved shaped scraper. It is 100% rust-free because it is composed of medical grade stainless steel. It is simple to sterilize to avoid any bacterial build-up. 

It comes in a 2-pack, so you can share them with a significant other or save one as a replacement.

Thinkprice

Best on a Budget
Thinkprice tongue scraper

This cost-effective four pack is a great option for people looking for a safe, plastic tongue scraper. It is made from BPA-free materials and is hassle free. People prefer this brand because the head is extra-wide and C shaped allowing for more bacterial removal during scraping.

The kit comes with 4 tongue scrapers and a travel case. It has good value for the price and is great for families looking to improve their oral hygiene. 

Orabrush

Best for Sensitive Tongues
Orabrush

This tongue cleaner is specifically designed for people with sensitive tongues. It has a soft, flexible head that is gentle on the tongue and helps reduce gagging.

The Orabrush tongue scraper's bristles are designed after a surgeon's scrub brush. It has thousands of micro-pointed bristles to help remove bacteria and debris from the tongue’s surface.

Keeko Copper Tongue Cleaner

Best for Bad Breath
Keeko

This tongue cleaner is made from copper, making it naturally anti-bacterial. Copper is known for reducing bad breath and improving oral hygiene.

The Keeko tongue cleaner has a curved design that fits comfortably in the mouth and helps remove bacteria from the tongue's surface. This makes it easier to eliminate bad breath.

GUM® Dual Action Tongue Cleaner Brush/Scraper

Best Brush and Scraper Duo
GUM tongue scraper

This tongue cleaner has a dual-action design with a brush and scraper to help remove bacteria and debris from the tongue’s surface. You'll use the brush to break up the bacteria and the scraper to remove it.

In addition, it has a narrow head that minimizes sensitivity and gag reflexes. The cleaner’s long handle also makes reaching back to the back of your tongue easier.

You'll use the brush to break up the bacteria and the scraper to remove it. This tongue scraper is available in a single pack and a 6-pack.

55Dental Kids Tongue Cleaner

Best for Kids
55Dental Kids Tongue Cleaner

This small tongue cleaner is perfect for kids. It has a soft, flexible head that is gentle on the tongue and helps reduce gagging. The curved design fits comfortably in the mouth and helps remove bacteria from the tongue.

The 55Dental Kids Tongue Cleaner is also candy-shaped. Kids will enjoy using it, and it will help make oral hygiene fun.

Snow The Tongue Cleanser

Best for White Tongue
SNOW Tongue Cleanser

A white tongue means bacteria has built up on the tongue's surface. Snow's Tongue Cleanser is specifically designed to remove this bacteria in one go.

It has a unique design that fits comfortably in the mouth and helps remove bacteria from the tongue's surface. This cleanser is made with surgical-grade stainless steel, making it easier to clean.

Grin Oral Care Tongue Cleaner

Best Disposable
Grin Tongue Cleaner

The Grin Oral Care Tongue Cleaner is a perfect choice if you're looking for a disposable tongue scraper. Each pack comes with 32 tongue scrapers that you throw away after each use.

These tongue cleaners are made with recycled plastic, making them more eco-friendly than other disposable options.

What is a Tongue Scraper?

A tongue scraper can help reduce the amount of odor-causing bacteria on the tongue.

Tongue scrapers come in a few different forms. The most common type is a conical-shaped plastic or metal device. They are inexpensive and easily available online.

For best results, use your tongue scraper daily to reduce debris and buildup on your tongue. Daily scraping can help reduce bad breath. It also increases taste sensitivity and improves your overall oral health.

How to Clean Your Tongue with a Tongue Scraper

Using a tongue scraper is simple. The best way to use a tongue scraper is to practice using it in front of a mirror to become familiar with the process.

The steps include:

  1. Use the rounded end of the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue. If you feel a gag reflex, start in the middle of your tongue and work your way backwards as you feel more comfortable. 
  2. Scrape your tongue by pulling the tongue scraper forward to the tip of your tongue.
  3. Clean the tongue scraper between uses to remove dead cells and bacteria.
  4. Repeat until the surface of your tongue is clean.
  5. Wash your tongue scraper with soap and water and store it in a clean, dry area to avoid bacterial buildup. 

How to Clean a Tongue Scraper

To clean your tongue scraper, wash it gently with warm soapy water. Keep it stored in a dry, clean place. Don’t keep your tongue scraper in a closed container, as this can cause bacterial buildup and harm oral health. 

Benefits of a Tongue Scraper

There are numerous benefits to using a tongue scraper. Some key advantages include: 

Improved Tongue Appearance

A white, coated tongue is not attractive. Scraping can help improve the look of your tongue when smiling or laughing.

Better Taste Buds

Tongue scraping can help reduce the amount of excess debris. This can help improve your overall sense of taste.

Fresher Breath

Reducing the number of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) can help improve bad breath

Improved Oral Health

Using a tongue scraper can help decrease bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. 

How to Choose a Tongue Scraper

When choosing a tongue scraper, you should consider the following:

Shape

A V-shaped or U-shaped scraper may be more comfortable for some people. However, people with limited dexterity may consider using a T-shaped scraper.

Size

You may want to consider a smaller tongue scraper if you travel a lot. Storing a tongue scraper in a travel case at home will also help keep your tongue scraper clean and protected.

Material

The material of the tongue scraper is also important. Plastic scrapers are often cheaper than metal ones, but they can harbor bacteria and must be replaced more frequently. Metal scrapers are usually made from stainless steel and are more durable.

Overall, tongue scrapers can be a great tool for reducing bad breath and improving oral health. With proper use and care, they can help keep your mouth clean and fresh. 

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by an oral health condition like gum disease or dry mouth. In some cases, it may indicate a more serious medical condition. 

The most common causes of bad breath include:

Poor Oral Health

Gum disease and tooth decay can cause an unpleasant smell. Food and debris can get trapped in plaque.

Smoking

Tobacco products have a strong smell, cause gum disease, and increase the risk of oral cancer.

Food

Certain foods, like garlic, spices, and vegetables, will create a strong odor.

Digestive Issues

Gastrointestinal problems like reflux or poor digestion can cause consumed foods to go back up the esophagus and cause halitosis. 

Dry Mouth

It is common to experience dry mouth after sleeping or while taking certain medications. A lack of saliva reduces the ability to wash away food particles, which can cause bad breath.

Medical Issues

Medical problems like sinus infections, post-nasal drip, or diabetes can also cause bad breath.

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

A tongue scraper helps reduce the buildup of bacteria that causes bad breath. However, you have to use it consistently. If you use your tongue scraper in the morning, it won’t benefit you after several meals. 

Other tips for reducing bad breath include:

  • Brush twice a day
  • Floss regularly
  • Stay hydrated
  • Use a fluoridated mouthwash
  • See your dentist twice a year

Of course, using your tongue scraper daily can also assist in reducing these conditions. 

Potential Side Effects & Risks of Tongue Cleaning

There are few side effects to using a tongue scraper. It is generally a painless and simple experience.

The most commonly reported downside is activating a gag reflex. When this happens, you should avoid putting the tongue scraper too far back.

Sometimes a person is too forceful with the tongue scraper, which may cause an accidental sore. Try to be mindful of how much pressure you use. If your tongue bleeds, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and let your tongue heal before using the tongue scraper again.

Always remember to wash your tongue scraper and keep it in a dry location to avoid bacterial buildup. Plastic tongue scrapers often have to be changed more frequently than stainless steel scrapers. 

Summary

Tongue scrapers are a great way to improve your oral hygiene. There are many different types of tongue scrapers available, so it's important to find the one that best suits your needs. 

Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option, something for sensitive tongues, or a disposable option, there is a tongue scraper for everyone.

Last updated on November 27, 2023
6 Sources Cited
Last updated on November 27, 2023
All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
  1. “Bad breath.” American Dental Association.
  2. Soares LG, et al. “Effectiveness of full- and partial-mouth disinfection on halitosis in periodontal patients.” Journal of Oral Science, 2015.
  3. Outhouse TL, Al-Alawi R, Fedorowicz Z, Keenan JV. “Tongue scraping for treating halitosis.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2006.
  4. Pedrazzi V, et al. “Tongue-cleaning methods: a comparative clinical trial employing a toothbrush and a tongue scraper.” J Periodontol, 2004.
  5. Varghese, E. “Interventions for managing halitosis.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2019.
  6. Winnier JJ, Rupesh S, Nayak UA, Reddy V, Prasad Rao A. "The comparative evaluation of the effects of tongue cleaning on existing plaque levels in children." Int J Clin Pediatr Dent., 2013.
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