Tongue scraping is a fast way to remove extra particles - including the ones that cause bad breath - from the surface of your tongue. It’s done with a small, slightly rounded tool like this!

Researchers in one 2005 study found that using a tongue scraper twice a day for seven days reduced the overall incidence of Mutans streptococci and Lactobacilli bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria types are known to cause bad breath and dental decay.

1. Stick out your tongue. Gently set the rounded end of the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue.
2. Slowly pull it forward, toward the tip of your tongue.
3. Repeat until you’ve scraped the entire surface of your tongue. One to two scrapes across the same area is usually enough.
4. Wash the tongue scraper with warm water and soap, dry, and store in a clean, dry area.