You may have already seen on the social networks a accessory small, curved metal object (usually copper or stainless steel). But do you know what this curious object is used for? To shave your tongue!

That's right. The habit is very common in Indian medicine Ayurveda and aims to eliminate bacteria, fungus, toxins, food residues and even bad emotions. What leaves many people wondering is if it can really bring benefits to oral health or if it is just another fad, check it out:

Should we really shave our tongues?

Yes! even those who don't believe in spiritual reasons to shave their tongues can have many advantages with this act. according to dental surgeon Hugo Lewgoy, cleaning the region is as important as brush your teeth So, if you still don't perform this daily care, it is worth starting now.

"Tongue hygiene is fundamental to keep oral health up to date, avoiding bad breath and the development of microorganisms that are harmful to the teeth", advises the specialist.

The back of this set of muscles usually accumulates a whitish mass, the so-called saburra. It concentrates food debris, proteins Therefore, cleaning it frequently makes your breath much fresher.

Moreover, even your digestion This is because scraping the tongue improves our sense of taste and enhances salivation and the identification of flavors.

Read also: Reflux and dental problems are the main causes of bad breath

But how to do this?

According to Ayurvedic medicine, you should shave your tongue when you wake up - and even before you go to sleep. drink water In delicate movements, place the object on the bottom of the tongue and bring it to the tip.

However, this equipment is not indispensable for your oral hygiene. toothbrush (There are even specific gels for the tongue: "They help remove the soap and neutralize the gases that cause the unpleasant odor," says the professional.

Read also: Salt under the tongue fights low blood pressure. Truth or myth?

Source: Hugo Lewgoy, dental surgeon, PhD from USP and partner at Curaprox.