A valuable indicator of your overall health

Pity your tongue: it's rarely given the credit it deserves. It's not only an important organ allowing us to taste, chew, swallow and of course talk, it's also a valuable indicator of your overall health and well-being.

Your tongue can show signs of many types of illnesses. A smooth, shiny, and painful tongue can indicate low iron or vitamin B12. A furry whitish surface may be an early sign of cancer. Your tongue can indicate tobacco and alcohol habits, and it can even be the source of bad breath. Your tongue needs your care and attention.

Even the best toothbrusher can leave bacteria in their mouth if they ignore their tongue. Keeping your mouth healthy and your breath smelling sweet means keeping your tongue clean. You can use your toothbrush to do the job: stick your tongue out as far as it will go, and gently brush it back to front. Or you can clean it with a teaspoon. Rinse the clean spoon under warm water, then place the open side down on your tongue, and drag it forward. Tongue scrapers, specifically designed for this purpose, are inexpensive and easy to use. Studies show that tongue cleaning with a spoon or special tongue scraper can be much more effective at removing bacteria than simply brushing your tongue with a toothbrush.

Cleaning your tongue gently every time you brush keeps your mouth cleaner, your breath sweeter, and gives your tongue the respect it deserves.