Daily Removal of the bacterial layer and food residues that can accumulate on the tongue is essential, as this prevents the proliferation of foul-smelling, gas-producing anaerobic bacteria known as volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) which are responsible for bad breath. 

When we think of daily oral hygiene, we usually think of cleaning teeth with a toothbrush by means of a proper brushing technique for two minutes. 

We also know that hygiene involves cleaning between the teeth, since food debris can accumulate in these spaces if they are not removed. The use of interproximal hygiene instruments - such as dental floss and tapes, interproximal brushes and oral irrigators - is important for maintaining proper oral hygiene. 

But what about your tongue? It is important to remember that a large amount of bacteria in your mouth builds up on your tongue. Daily removal of this bacterial layer and of the food residues that may build up on the tongue is very important. This prevents the proliferation of anaerobic bacteria which produce the volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) that cause oral halitosis. 

The use of a tongue cleaner is recommended, not only for people with bad breath, but also for all those who seek to thoroughly clean their mouths. 

The removal of the layer of bacteria and food debris from the tongue, the so-called tongue coating, can be done with a tongue cleaner. This can greatly reduce the production of volatile sulfur compounds which cause bad breath (by up to 75% after one week of use)⁽¹⁾. A tongue cleaner can reach the back of the tongue, where most bacteria build up. It needs some practice, since at the beginning it can cause a gagging effect, which usually goes away over time.  

WHAT IS A TONGUE CLEANER LIKE? 

It has two sides: one with undulated surface specially adapted for the central depression of the tongue, and another with a smooth surface, designed to clean the sides of the tongue. 

HOW TO USE THE TONGUE CLEANER? 

1. First clean the central part of your tongue using the side of the cleaner that has a protrusion. To do this, hold the tongue cleaner by the handle so that the protrusion is facing down. Stick out your tongue and place the tongue cleaner on your tongue as far back as you can. 

2. Drag the cleaner across the centre of your tongue toward the front of your mouth. Rinse the cleaner with water. 

3. Clean the sides of your tongue using the smooth surface of the cleaner. Rinse the cleaner after each swipe. 

The Halita range of products also consists of a toothpaste for daily use that provides a fresh taste and prevents bad breath, a mouthwash with a specific formula that fights bad breath from the source (formula backed scientifically) and a spray to ensure good breath all day long, anywhere, anytime.