Why Should You Use a Copper Tongue Cleaner Every Day

Did you know, a copper tongue cleaner can reduce Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSC), which causes foul oral breath, by up to 75% compared to toothbrushes? It is proven to be an effective source for maintaining oral hygiene and overall well-being. The U-shaped apparatus comes with two ends, and the U curve is used to scrape out the bacteria from the tongue.  

Tongue cleaners are, however, not a recent invention. Its use can be traced back to Ayurveda, making tongue scrapers an age-old practice. In the 19th century tongue scrapers were made of ivory, while European aristocrats used the pearl-made tongue cleaner. Copper, however, was found to be the most effective material due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its surface is known to disrupt bacterial survival by almost 99%.  And with that strong finding, copper tongue cleaners became popular for good oral hygiene. More so, it does not corrode, making it durable for permanent use. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the tongue while also cleaning it. 

Why Copper Tongue Cleaner 

A tongue cleaner is not just limited to scraping. It is also necessary to be mindful of the type you pick. When choosing one, it is necessary to check for other details – from durability to effectiveness.  

If you are wondering “why copper tongue scraper”, the answer is simple. Not only are they easy on the wallet, but they are also extremely flimsy and lightweight. Due to that, they are very ineffective in scraping stubborn bacterial formation from the tongue. And unlike a copper tongue cleaner that is 100% eco-friendly and reusable, plastic tongue cleaners are not eco-friendly.  

Stainless steel tongue scrapers are definitely an upgrade from the plastic ones. However, they can feel quite heavy for those with sensitive tongues. And let’s not forget; they lack copper’s antibacterial properties.  

Copper Vs. Stainless Steel Cleaners 

The debate between copper and stainless steel as the correct choice for a tongue scraper is most definitely won by copper. Unlike steel, its antibacterial surface poses an enemy against the microorganisms (fungi, mold) present on the tongue. It kills the cell walls of bacteria and obviates its growth. Apart from killing off harmful foreign particles, copper aids in the balance of beneficial oral microbiota. Its exposure to saliva keeps the mouth’s pH level in check, creating a living habitat for good bacteria on tongue. Due to its ubiquitous use for centuries, copper has been scientifically proven to be good for health without any side-effects. Its presence in Ayurvedic practice as a detox further proves its validity. 

So, if you ever find yourself questioning “is copper tongue scraper better than other materials”, the answer is a resounding yes! 

Choosing the Right Copper Tongue Cleaner 

When choosing a tongue cleaner, it is ideal to go for copper. But what should you look for when choosing the right one? 

1. 100% Copper 

Markets are filled with dupes and fakes. Do not be fooled by cheap copper or fake alloys. Pure copper has a rose-gold or warm brown color, solid and dense in weight, and is not magnetic. A 100% real copper tongue cleaner will possess its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for scraping dirt. 

2. Ergonomic Design 

Copper tongue cleaners have an ergonomic design that feels comfortable to use and easy to handle. Its U shape is intentional as soft rounded surfaces are safer and more effortless to maneuver over sharp edges. It is also less damaging to the tongue. 

3. Durability 

Tongue cleaners should be a part of your daily oral hygiene. Thus, selecting a cleaner that doesn’t break or bend easily when used every day is something to be mindful of. If it is too thin, it will warp easily with time. Yogikuti’s copper tongue cleaners are the perfect example of thickness and durability in action. 

Benefits of Copper Tongue Cleaners  

Apart from warding off antibacterial growth, copper-made tongue cleaners have a variety of benefits.  

1. Overall Oral Hygiene 

Using a copper tongue cleaner helps not only with tongue bacteria removal but also with fresher breath. Captivated food particles and dead cells on your tongue’s surface are the biggest causes of bad breath. Due to the uneven surface of the organ, the crevices on the tongue hide bacterial growth that result in VSC. Toothbrush, alone, cannot solve this. For a complete oral hygiene, tongue cleaners scrape out the sources of the odor, leaving behind fresher breath. With a cleaner tongue, the risk of bacteria seeping into gums and teeth also reduces, which results in good oral health. 

2. Enhanced Taste  

When your tongue is free of blockers, you experience an enhanced taste. Debris formation on the tongue can severely dampen the quality of taste. Thus, when removed and cleaned with a copper tongue scraper, it improves the ability to savor flavors optimally. 

3. Toxin Reduction 

After a good night’s sleep, the tongue gets covered by a yellow coating, which is nothing but toxins that form during the night. Ayurveda identifies these toxins as ama. Using a copper tongue scraper helps remove this harmful layer and prevents it from entering the digestive tract, which takes us to our next benefit. 

4. Supports Digestion 

Although an Ayurvedic tradition, keeping the tongue clean is linked to enhanced digestive wellness. Digestion begins the moment food enters the mouth. When we chew and swallow, parts of the toxins settled in the tongue also get swallowed with the food. This reaches the digestive system, causing toxin accumulation in the body. Thus, when the tongue is free from harmful toxins, so is digestion.  

5. Social Confidence 

How many times have you felt conscious due to bad breath when talking in public? It breaks down self-confidence and makes it difficult to socialize. Real world stories from people who use copper tongue scrapers notice that the material glides easily without irritating the tongue.  They also witness visible differences in the freshness of their breath. These are perks that a toothbrush cannot offer! 

Steps to Use a Copper Tongue Cleaner 

Using a copper tongue cleaner is very simple and not at all time-consuming. Below are the six easy steps to master the art of using one – 

Step 1:Stand in front of a mirror with good lighting and stick out your tongue. Ensure that the lighting makes the surface of your tongue visible. 

Step 2:Hold the two ends of the scraper with both your hands and carefully place the curved end at the back of your tongue. 

Step 3:Pull the scraper from the back to the front of your tongue (just like sliding dirt off any other surface). There is no need to put a lot of pressure; gentle and firm strokes will do the trick. 

Step 4:Wash the scraper with water after every stroke. 

Step 5:Repeat the process five to ten times until your tongue feels clean. 

Step 6:Finally, rinse your mouth and proceed with brushing. 

To get the best results, use the tool every morning when brushing. 

Tips to Keep Copper Tongue Cleaner Clean 

• Apart from rinsing after every stroke, a copper tongue cleaner must also be disinfected after every use regularly.  

• Dip it in warm water and wash it with some non-abrasive soap.  

• Occasionally rinse it with vinegar solution to keep it disinfected. 

• Preserve its natural shine and prevent tarnishing by sprinkling lemon juice and salt. Rub and then wash it off. 

The most crucial tip of all is to dry every drop of water from the tongue cleaner. Water that sits for long on copperware invites tarnish. It is also important to store it in dry places away from moisture. The better you care for it, the more durable and long-lasting it will be! 

Is Copper Tongue Cleaner Safe for Everyone 

Copper tongue cleaners can be used by all – individuals who are looking for effective solutions to combat poor oral hygiene and causes of bad breath. People with braces, false teeth, or any other dental work can also use the scraper freely. It is advisable for children to avoid it and go for plastic-made, but with the right guidance copper ones can also do the job.  

Patients with tongue injuries and ulcers, or anyone allergic to copper can avoid its use. Although, before using it, you can always consult a dentist. 

Final Thoughts 

Taking a minute out of your daily routine to give your oral health the utmost hygiene is honestly a win. And a copper tongue cleaner is the way to go about it. The beautiful blend of the teachings of Ayurveda and findings of microbiology carefully underscores the many benefits (from enhanced taste to toxin-free digestion) of using it. 

So, next time you visit your washroom, make sure you have a copper tongue cleaner ready to use!