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5 gross things that happen when you don't clean your tongue

Not brushing your tongue could be one of the causes of bad breath.

Written by Tania Tarafdar | Updated : May 15, 2017 10:14 AM IST

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Things That Happen When You Do Not Brush Your Tongue

You might often avoid brushing your tongue thinking that it is okay not to clean the area. But brushing your tongue is as important as brushing your teeth. If not, you can suffer from these oral health conditions, says well-known dentist Dr Nikita Goyal.

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Halitosis

Halitosis: Foul breath is the number one side effect of not brushing your tongue. The bacteria breeding on your tongue leads to foul smell. The odour causing bacteria tends to stay in the back of your tongue. So it is important that you brush your tongue regularly.

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Black, Hairy Tongue

Black, hairy tongue: You can have a black, hairy tongue if the papillae on your tongue get stained from leftover food particles especially if particles are never brushed away. That gives the tongue a dark, furry appearance. It should disappear if you start cleaning. Also Read - Neck Pain: How to Cure Cervical Spondylitis Permanently at Home!

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Gingivitis

Gum disease can put you at the risk of Alzheimer's. © Shutterstock

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Oral Thrush

Oral thrush: When the bacteria levels in your mouth get out of whack from not brushing your tongue, and the yeast grows out of control, you can suffer from oral thrush. You can see it as white patches on your tongue. Also Read - 10 Steps Towards Building Self Discipline