However, in recent years it has become increasingly evident that most cases of bad breath are usually treatable once the right diagnosis is made. Wait a minute. The bacteria on our tongue and in our mouth have an important protective role. When they are diminished drastically, say by the chronic use of antibiotics, then the tongue becomes prey to the colonization by Candida, a yeast-like organism that causes Candidiasis. Candida are micro-organisms, not bacteria, are present in small numbers in our mouths but are usually kept at bay by the bacteria.
Candidal diseases are serious and more difficult to control than bad breath.
So the idea is to keep the number and activity of bacteria on the tongue low, but not to get rid of them completely. In some ancient cultures, tongue cleaners had been used for centuries. It is only recently that the practice now finally being recognized in the West and in countries of modern history. With more research verifying its benefit and effectiveness, a fast growing number of dentists are recommending it. For over a year, I had been using a different tongue cleaner and was always amazed at how much debris it removed from my tongue.