Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Easy Ways to Clean Your Tongue Properly
The tongue has the most amount of bacteria as compared to the other parts of your mouth. However, most people do not take the time to clean their tongue. Cleaning your tongue will help you avoid tooth decay, bad breath, and much more.
Why Is It Important to Clean Your Tongue Regularly?
Over time, dead cells, bacteria, and debris can build up on your tongue and cause bad breath. Keeping your tongue clean is important, as it:
1. Improves the Appearance of Your Tongue
When there is a build up of excess debris, your tongue might start having a white appearance. When you clean it daily, this coating can be removed.
2. Improves Your Taste
Cleaning your tongue can improve your sense of taste. Your tongue will be able to distinguish different sensations better.
3. Removes Bacteria
Cleaning your tongue every day reduces the mutans streptococci and lactobacilli bacteria which are known for causing dental decay and bad breath.
4. Reduces Bad Breath
Effective tongue-scraping can remove odour-causing bacteria.
5. Improves Overall Health
Removing bacteria can help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other conditions of the mouth.
What Do You Need to Clean Your Tongue?
There are many different types of tools to choose from to clean your tongue. The most common tool people use is tongue-scrapers. Many also use tongue brushes though they are relatively new. Tongue cleaners are tools that have small ridges and this help to pull it across your tongue. Scraper-brush combinations are also available. Using this tool, you scrape while you brush. Tongue brushing and scraping are equally effective to prevent the chances of plaque. After cleaning, you could rinse your mouth with mouthwash.
How Can You Clean Your Tongue the Right Way?
Tongue cleaning is very easy when you do it the right way.
1. Cleaning Tongue Using a Brush
After brushing properly, turn your attention to your tongue. You can simply use the bristles of the toothbrush to clean your tongue.
You could also use toothbrushes that have tongue cleaners on the lower surface.
The bacteria- and odour-build up can be removed by dabbing your toothbrush and carefully brushing the tongue on the top.
Start from cleaning the back of your tongue and work forward towards the beginning of the mouth.
Brush the top area of the tongue entirely on soft pressure and finish the process off by rinsing with some mouthwash or water.
2. Cleaning Your Tongue Using a Scraper
After brushing, stick your tongue out. Place the rounded end of the scraper gently at the back of the tongue.
If you find gagging to be a problem, then you can start in the middle of the tongue.
Start from the back gradually as you get used to this habit.
Place the scraper gently on the tongue and slowly pull it forward in the direction to the tip of the tongue. Always go from the back to the tip and never do it the other way around.
After scraping, use a tissue or a washcloth to remove the debris collected on the scraper.
Repeat this process until the entire tongue surface is scraped. Usually, scraping once or twice in an area is sufficient.
Wash the cleaner with some soap and water, dry, and store it in a clean area.
Natural Remedies to Clean and Disinfect Your Tongue
Here is how you can clean your tongue naturally. These home remedies to clean your tongue are very simple:
1. Garlic
We know garlic is the reason for bad breath and think that they do not cleanse the mouth. Regardless of these previous beliefs, garlic, when eaten raw, can fight and destroy the bacteria on the tongue, thus keeping it clean.
2. Salt
Another good way to clean your tongue is by using salt. Abrasive particles of salt will help remove dead cells and bad bacteria present on the tongue. All you have to do is put a little salt on the tongue and gently brush it around with the help of your toothbrush for a minute or two.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is not only something we use as a spice, but it can also make an amazing substitute for antiseptic drugs that you can use for your mouth. Combine some lemon juice and turmeric until the consistency is very pasty. Put this turmeric paste on the tongue for about 2 minutes and then rinse your mouth properly with some lukewarm water.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. You can put 1 tbsp of this juice in your mouth to kill the bacteria and germs on the tongue or the gums. Swish the juice for a few minutes and wash your mouth. Using warm water, rinse your mouth.
5. Herbs
Some herbs like mint, chamomile, and sage are known for their unique medicinal properties. Take 1 tbsp of chamomile, 1 tsp of sage, and 1 tsp of mint. Add a small amount of oak bark to this mixture of herbs and fill it with around 4 cups of very hot water. Keep this water aside and wait for it to cool and then strain the water. Then put a tablespoon of salt into this water. All you have to do now is swish this water in your mouth twice a day right after you are done brushing.
Apart from these methods, cleaning your tongue with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can also be done.
FAQs
Here are some things about tongue-cleaning that you should know.
1. How Many Times Should I Clean My Tongue?
Cleaning your tongue should be done every day so that you can consistently maintain your oral health. Bacteria builds up in your mouth soon after brushing, so regular brushing and flossing is a very important step to fight off oral health issues.
2. Is Tongue Scraping Safe?
One of the biggest concerns is gagging when scraping the tongue. To avoid this, you could scrape from the middle of the tongue. You could also accidentally cut the tongue with the scraper. To prevent injury, make sure the scraper does not have any uneven edges and make sure the scraper is safe to use.
3. Is It Better to Brush or Scrape the Tongue?
Using a scraper is better than a brush since brushes are more likely to cause gagging. Scrapers also allow you to start cleaning from the back of the tongue without touching the sensitive roof of the mouth.
4. What To Do If I Get Hurt while Cleaning My Tongue?
If you feel any discomfort or hurt yourself, then hold off scraping for a day or two and then try a gentler approach.
Tongue cleaning is a very simple process. When you pay attention to your oral hygiene, the number of bacteria present in your mouth is reduced. It is important that you clean your tongue and teeth every day. You should also see a dentist for regular cleaning and checkups.
Also Read:
Apps To Track Your Daily Water Intake
Effective Tips for Drinking Water for Proper Body Functioning
Hot Shower vs Cold Shower: Which is Best for You Read more
Suggested for you
Are You a New Mom? Read This If Struggling in Motherhood
So you are a new mom, congratulations!
After delivery now its time to start a new life, a new job, a new struggle.Your daily routines have changed.Your romantic peaceful nights are replaced by sleepless nights.Your luxurious spas are replaced by 2 minutes shower.Your stylish branded clutches replaced by huge carry bags meant for your baby
Well, wait! I am not scaring you.I want you to be mentally prepared, stay calm and enjoy your new journey, your motherhood journey.
We often have the same perspective on motherhood. Sleepless exhausted nights, stitches pain, weakness, panda eyes, fat belly and what not?
New moms get panicked as soon as the baby cries without trying to understand that the baby is new to the environment around him/her. At this phase, the support of family especially her husband is much needed.
Mom, stop worrying about your skin, household chores, laundry and give all your attention to your baby. Your baby needs extra care, love, hugs and only you can do this.
After all, so long you have waited for this moment, so many pains you have borne to bring your baby to this world. Now just embrace the moment, take your charge and start the new journey.
For this, you have to be physically as well as mentally strong and healthy. Cut all the negativity out from your life and go with the flow. This is a phase which will soon pass away.
Take a look at your baby, admire his small eyes, tiny fingers. Your baby is your part, your own flesh and blood.
Motherhood is not an easy task, as it requires a lot of patience.
There would be times when you would be judged by others. Breastfeed or not, stay at home or working home and much more. Listen to them but follow your instincts. Do what you feel is right for you and your baby.
Take care of your self too. How can a tired, exhausted mom take care of the baby?
Take short naps with your baby.
Ask for help from your family.
Have a nutritious diet as your baby is on your feed.
No need to take guilt for that extra 15 mins sleep, that extra cup of coffee or some makeup.
Child's care and well being is your prime concern and priority but do not lose yourself in this process.
Do all those things that give you happiness and satisfaction. Have a break. Be a happy mom because only a happy mom can raise happy children.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Suggested for you
Ria's Most Precious Birthday Present, A Gift For The Entire Life
"Please mom, tell me, what is my birthday present" , three years old Ria sounded extremely curious. "Just wait for some time my birthday girl, have patience" , answered Mamta lovingly, and Subodh smiled as he drove his wife and daughter to their destination. The car stopped in front of an orphanage. "Your wait is finally over baby, get ready to see your birthday present" , Subodh announced. "Here dad, is this a gift shop" ? Ria enquired. " Come with me Ria, I'll let you know" , said Mamta as she held her hand and started climbing the stairs.
It all started two months back, when Mamta had visited St. Mary's orphanage with the children of her class as their field trip. Mamta was a teacher in a nearby school. When she visited this place, she chanced upon this little baby of merely a few days, crying her lungs out lying helplessly in the cradle. Mamta being an affectionate lady with a heart of gold went near and picked her up. The baby suddenly stopped crying as she cuddled her warmly. Mamta sat on a chair with the baby in her lap and fed her the bottle of milk she was refusing to take before, although she was hungry. Mamta instantly fell in love with her, she could not resist her beaming eyes, innocent face and the strong grip with which she had held her saree. On finishing up the milk, she even gave Mamta a beautiful smile. On finding out from the authorities, Mamta came to know that the baby's mother had passed away after her birth and the father abandoned her in the hospital itself. This was how she reached St. Mary's orphanage. It was difficult to part with the baby for Mamta, but she had already made up her mind; she only needed to know Subodh's views before taking the decision. Subodh agreed to adopt this baby after some initial reservations, but once he saw the child, he also could not wait to bring her home just like Mamta.
So, the day had finally come when they were going to add a new member to their family. The couple had intentionally planned this on their daughter Ria's birthday.
Ria entered the orphanage office with her parents . "Where is my birthday present mom?" Ria couldn't wait anymore. The lady incharge instructed one of the staff member to bring the child. Mamta took the baby in her arms and stooped a little to reach Ria .She said, "here is your birthday present Ria, your baby sister". Ria widened her eyes as much as she could and said "woooww" , in absolute thrill and surprise." She is my baby ; you are not lying ;O I love you mom, I love you so much . Give her to me, I'll carry her" , she tweeted. "OK sit down , Mamta said as she put the baby in her little lap, while holding her from beneath. " She is so cute, just look at her dad, we will take her home and she will sleep with me", Ria continued to talk. "But my friend Sam's little brother came from the hospital, is this a hospital dad?" Ria wanted to clear her doubts. "Hahaha..." Subodh laughed, "no darling this is not a hospital. Since it's your birthday today, God decided to send your baby sister here, where you can celebrate with many other children and make new friends as well," he explained. "Where are the other children dad?" , asked this overjoyed and inquisitive child. "Come I'll take you", said the lady in charge. Ria went inside the orphanage and celebrated her birthday with the children staying there. They played, they danced, they enjoyed together.
It was time to go back home along with a new family member and Ria's happiness knew no bounds. "What is her name mom" , Ria asked. "Gudia" , said the lady incharge as they were calling her by this name for the last two months. "I will call her Fairy, because she looks like one, my Fairy", declared Ria with pure love as she kissed her little sister.
"Lamha hai ye kitna pyara, rishta ye anmol hai,
do pariyon ko baandha jisne, prem ki pakki dor hai."
This article is inspired by the true story of a friend, although I have taken my creative liberty to make it an interesting read. Both of these children are growing up and developing beautifully in the canopy of their parent's love, care and blessings.
If you enjoyed reading this article, do like it, share it and don't forget to give your feedback.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Suggested for you
10 Everyday Mistakes That Secretly Damage Your Skin
Skin is a waterproof layer that covers our body and protects inner tissues, cells and also our nervous system. For a sense organ that serves so many vital functions for your body, it is important that you include a thorough wellness routine. However, what if there are secret things ruining your skin without your notice?
All your best laid plans for skincare may come to zilch if you don't bring into consideration everyday things that damage your skin from the core! We bring you a list of seemingly unassuming things that can harm your skin if not nipped in the bud.
Your Skin's Secret Enemies You Didn't Know Were Culprits
1. Sleeping
If you have a habit of sleeping side-ways, your chances of getting wrinkles at an early age increases! Avoid pushing your face against the pillow so you don't wake up one fine morning to see facial lines that apparently sprung overnight! Start sleeping on your back instead.
2. Too Much Swimming
Swimming is good for your overall health and fitness. But not the chlorine that comes as an unwelcome guest! Even if you take shower after a good swim, the chorine in the pool's water might still cling on and clog your skin's pores. This makes your skin vulnerable to breakouts and pigmentation. Ensure that you use a soap which gives out more foam to completely remove any traces of chlorine.
3. Hot Showers
What's wrong with a relaxing hot shower? Well, long hot water showers dry out your skin and deplete it of essential moisture. In the long run, it makes your skin dry. Try to use luke-warm water instead. If you find your skin is turning red, step out immediately.
4. Excessive Intake Of Sodium
Sodium, though an essential element for our body, can suck out moisture when taken in huge amounts. This can leave your skin dull and dry. Cut down on the salt intake in your food to reduce your consumption of sodium.
5. Too Much Sugar
Well, too much sugar can put you at risk for diabetes, but bad skin? It seems excessive intake of sugar hits your skin’s collagen levels and might make it saggy. Yet another reason to cut down on sugar!
6. Contact Lenses
Wearing an outdated lens or spectacles forces you to shrink your eyes, thus creating fine lines around them. Visit your eye specialist and get your eyes checked regularly to ensure you wear the appropriate powered lenses.
7. Dry-Cleaned Clothes
If this has you turning up your nose in disbelief, read this. The plastic covering on your freshly laundered clothes allows them to absorb more skin-harming chemicals! Use clothes-bags to carry your laundry around or remove the plastic covering as soon you get home.
8. Tweezing
While shapely eyebrows are every woman's dream, tweezing them too often will leave your skin damaged. it also inhibits hair growth and can leave your brows too thin. Always wash your tweezers with an anti-bacterial solution and close your open pores with the help of a hot towel.
9. Passive Smoking
Even if you don’t smoke, standing next to a person who does will make your skin sag. The harmful nicotine and tar in cigarettes is extremely dangerous to the skin. Avoid coming in contact with cigarette smoke as far as possible.
10. Over-exfoliating
Exfoliating your skin regularly increases the glow and removes external dirt. What then is the problem? Well, too much exfoliation removes the natural oils of your skin. Balance your scrubbing sessions with proper moisturization.
Read more
Suggested for you
#BlendItUp Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney With Garlic
The Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney Recipe is a hot, tangy chutney flavoured with garlic. The chutney acts as a perfect accompaniment with papads and can also be served with parathas and breads. It's a no oil recipe and can be preserved in a refrigerated for at least a week.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
2 People
10 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
6 large tomatoes, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tbsp (tablespoon) black peppercorns
1 inch piece of cinnamon
2 green chillies, finely chopped
1/4 cup cashewnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 cup jaggery
1 tsp (teaspoon) red chilli powder
Juice from one lemon
Salt to taste
Method
Step 1
Prepare the ingredients according to instructions.
Step 2
In a heavy bottom pan add all the ingredients except sugar, lemon and red chilli powder.
Step 3
Cook it at the medium flame by stirring it continuously until the tomatoes have softened.
Step 4
When the tomatoes soften, add sugar and red chilli powder and cook further on medium flame until the tomato chutney thickens.
Step 5
When it thickens turn off the heat, add the lemon and stir. Check the salt, sweetness and spice and adjust to suit your taste.
Step 6
The Sweet and Spicy Tomato Chutney With Garlic is ready to be served.
Read more
Suggested for you
Should I give to my daughter a cow milk or a buffalo milk?
My name is khyati. I am working mother. My daughter is 14 months old now. After maternity leave, when i got call from office regarding rejoining, First question came in my mind was, "what will Virja eat? How will I manage breastfeeding?" She was about to complete 6 months so it was time to introduce her outside milk also. But next question was Cow milk or buffalo milk? I asked doctor about it and he suggested buffalo milk. But buffalo milk contains fat and how can a6 month old baby digest this much fat? My monther said ‘hamare jamane me to ham bachho ko gay ka dudh dete the’ Confusion between cow and buffalo, Thenafter discussion with my mother,in laws and friends who have kids, we introduced her cow milk.. A lot of people advised me to not give her cow milk because they can’t digest protein contained by cow milk.. so i give her diluted milk..But she had loose motion for next few days.. still I continued to give her cow milk by thinking that loose motion can happen due to another reason too.. because I introduced her few vegetables and fruits too.. then after few week, she had cough and fever.. Again people were saying no to me.. I thought, "cow milk is easy for digestion and i also grew up by drinking that only.. my mom used to give me that..so whats wrong with it..because milk is necessary food at that age.. and my job was 9 to 6" after asking so many friends and googling, one of my friend said me to add rock sugar in it. Milk with small rock sugar prevents cough.. then I started doing so..and nothing happens to her for long time. Now she loves to drink cow milk.. and i am happy mother!
Read more
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
16 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
4 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is better to avoid this at this time and also if you want to eat burger then it is better to make it a home . Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
15 hours ago
Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
15 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
9 hours ago
Q. I am 7 month pregnant with second baby I have severe abscess pain in armpit and buttocks pls tell me remedy for this ...Dr recommend antibiotics and ultracet pain tablet I have taken some doses of it but worried about the foetal development..does it hurt my baby
Read moreDr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
continue antibiotics regularly
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. Hello dr meri beti 6 days ki hai or use feed karwane ke bad nose or muh se milk bhar aa raha hai to aesa kyu kr rahi hai….me kya Dr ko dikhau kya???
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello dear parent! Keep your baby’s heart in a little elevated position while you’re breastfeeding. Burp your baby after every feed. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy. Consult your doctor for further assistance
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts how to reduce belly fat after pregnancy and skin was loose .two year passes but problem is persist.How can reduce it
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. For weight loss diet is good in intermittent fasting a good and but if your body is loose or you feel you really do tighten up your body then gymming or yoga both the things are going to be very good both the things are going to be helpful in tightening up your body and muscles at the same time but it is time consuming we just have to have patience
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. my baby is one month old and have cold symptoms. can I consume buttermilk?
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. yes u can further you can contact with your doctor and you can get thhje the solution for this by discussing with him he will guide you for more details if required .
Its always better to take the guidance by the concernged person with the geniune advice ...
Check out this new Memory
Eva Nikhare
Guardian of a 10 m old girl
3 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Leela
Mom of a 1 yr 4 m old girl
4 mins ago
#cutestbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Payal Mazumdar
Mom of a 6 m old girl
4 mins ago
#babyofsummer24
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Eva Nikhare
Guardian of a 10 m old girl
4 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Ayushi
Mom of a 1 m old girl
5 mins ago
#MamyPokoMilestoneMemories
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive