Heart health risks could rise with this dental hygiene habit, experts warn

According to Google Trends, searches for “tongue scraper” have nearly doubled in the past twenty years. This rise in popularity of tongue scraping, a practice that has been around for centuries as a way to maintain dental health, has led to some experts expressing concerns about potential risks associated with the practice.

While previous studies have shown that scraping or brushing the tongue can lead to an improvement in one’s sense of taste in as little as two weeks, some experts are now cautioning against potential heart health risks linked to tongue scraping. Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, has highlighted the strong connection between good oral hygiene and heart health. He explained that gingivitis or severe gum infections can cause heart problems on various levels.

Tongue scraping involves cleaning the surface of the tongue to remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells. This process can be done using specific tongue-scraping tools, which are readily available at pharmacies for a minimal cost. Dr. Whitney White of Aspen Dental recommends gentle tongue-scraping once a day for adults to help eliminate bacteria and freshen breath. Metal tongue scrapers are often recommended for hygienic reasons to maintain cleanliness.

However, despite the potential benefits of tongue scraping, experts like Dr. Serwer have warned about a lesser-known cardiac risk associated with the practice. Serwer explained that tongue scraping can cause microscopic cuts on the tongue, which could introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. This, in turn, increases the risk of endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves that can lead to severe heart damage if left untreated.

While tongue scraping can be beneficial for oral health, it is crucial not to overdo it. Dr. White advised against scraping too aggressively or too frequently, as this can disrupt the balance of good microbes on the tongue, potentially lowering nitric oxide levels and increasing the risk of issues like high blood pressure.

Dr. Serwer emphasized the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene through regular visits to the dentist, brushing, and flossing. While brushing and flossing can introduce bacteria, the benefits of maintaining healthy gums far outweigh the risks. Tongue scraping, on the other hand, offers minimal benefits and should not be seen as a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices.

For those who choose to continue tongue scraping, Dr. White recommended doing so in moderation to keep both oral and overall health in balance. She stressed that tongue scraping is not a necessary step in oral health routines and should not replace twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing.

In conclusion, while tongue scraping may have its benefits, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks associated with the practice. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits remains the cornerstone of healthy teeth and gums.