Sometimes your tongue can have a slightly thicker white covering even if you're completely healthy. So don't panic! It depends on the texture of the tongue. If the surface is naturally rough then more plaque will stick to it.

Bacteria then live and breed in the plaque. In small amounts these are harmless. But it is best to scrape them off before they get out of control and start causing problems, like throat infections.

Tongue scraping should be routine before teeth cleaning every evening. You can buy tongue scrapers at the drug store, but an ordinary spoon usually works better.