White Tongue? Learn the Causes and 8 Easy Ways to Clear It

1. Use a tongue scraper.

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A tongue scraper does for your tongue what a toothbrush does for your teeth. Left unchecked, layers of bacteria, food remnants, fungi, and dead cells pile up, causing odor, pale coating, and other issues.

Extend your tongue, set the rounded edge near the back, press lightly, and draw it forward in one smooth stroke. Rinse the tool between passes and repeat until the surface feels smooth.

No scraper handy? The curved back of a clean kitchen spoon works in a pinch—just wash it before and after.

Many find scraping oddly satisfying once they see how much residue leaves the mouth. Along with fresher breath, it may lower bacteria you would otherwise swallow and heighten taste. Added to your daily routine, it makes a real difference.