Broadmoor Blog

Dental | May 9, 2025

The 10-Second Habit That Could Change Your Breath for Good

By Broadmoor Family Dental

Bad breath is one of those things we don’t talk about enough, but when it hits, it really hits. And while mints and gum might give you a quick fix, they don’t get to the root of the issue. Luckily, there’s one simple, often-overlooked habit that can make a world of difference in just 10 seconds a day: tongue scraping.

Tongue scraping is exactly what it sounds like. You use a small tool (called a tongue scraper) to gently clean the surface of your tongue, removing the layer of bacteria, food particles, and dead cells that like to camp out there. Yes, it’s kind of gross. But yes, it works, and that’s why the habit is taking the internet by storm.

Why It Matters

Here’s the thing: your tongue is a major culprit when it comes to bad breath. Even if you brush and floss like a pro, bacteria can hang out on your tongue and cause odor. Scraping it away takes just a few seconds and helps eliminate one of the biggest sources of halitosis (aka bad breath).

And the benefits don’t stop there. Regular tongue scraping can also:

  • Improve your sense of taste
  • Help prevent plaque buildup
  • Promote overall oral hygiene

How To Do It (The Right Way)

  1. Get a tongue scraper. They’re inexpensive and easy to find. Look for one made of stainless steel. These can be found at some drugstores, but always online.
  2. Do it after brushing. Stick out your tongue and gently drag the scraper from the back of your tongue to the front.
  3. Rinse and repeat. Usually 2–3 gentle swipes will do it. Rinse the scraper in between.
  4. Don’t scrape too hard. You’re not trying to scrub grout! Gentle pressure is plenty.
  5. Clean thoroughly. The tongue scraper will hold that bacteria if not cleaned properly after use, rendering it useless the next time around! Wash with soap and water, dry thoroughly, and store in a dry place. These often come with containers for safe storage.

 

Should you add it to your routine?

If you deal with chronic bad breath, feel like your mouth doesn’t feel clean even after brushing, or just want to level up your hygiene game, this is a quick win. It’s one of those small things that can have a big payoff. Easy, affordable and Dr. Cooper approved!

 

 

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