Plastic vs Metal Tongue Cleaner: Which One Is Right for You?

in Jan 8, 2025

Introduction

A tongue scraper, more commonly known as a tongue cleaner, is a common dental tool found in every household. A tongue cleaner removes bacteria that settles on your tongue and helps you get rid of bad breath. Like every other product in the market there are various types of tongue cleaners. So how do you choose between plastic vs metal tongue scraper, let’s find out. 


Why Use a Tongue Cleaner?

A tongue cleaner is one of the most common dental items used by everyone after brushing their teeth. A tongue cleaner helps you remove bacteria and clean the surface of your tongue. There are two types of tongue scrapers; metal tongue scraper and plastic. Before using one, you must know which one is right for you. 


Plastic Tongue Cleaner: Pros and Cons

To understand the comparison between plastic vs metal tongue scrapers, you need to know the pros and cons linked to each. The pros and cons of plastic tongue cleaners are-

Pros-

  • A plastic cleaner is gentler than a metal cleaner. If someone is sensitive about using a cleaner, they can start with a plastic cleaner.

  • A plastic cleaner is relatively cheaper and budget-friendly than a metal cleaner. 

  • A plastic cleaner is easily available.


Cons-

  • The most important con is that it is plastic. Plastic, in any form, is not ideal to put into your mouth due to the possible micro-plastic deposition. 

  • They are not as effective as a steel cleaner.

  • They are not reusable and need to be replaced after a certain period.

Infographic comparing the benefits of plastic and metal tongue cleaners

Metal Tongue Cleaner: Pros and Cons

Metal and plastic tongue scrapers are commonly used by people of all ages. However, both these have their set of pros and cons. The pros and cons of a metal tongue cleaner are-

Pros-

  • A metal tongue cleaner is more efficient than a plastic tongue cleaner. It can remove bacteria in one stroke.

  • A metal tongue cleaner is easily reusable. You can wash it after every use.

  • You can use a metal tongue cleaner for longer periods of time.


Cons-

  • A metal tongue cleaner is comparatively costlier than a plastic cleaner.

  • A metal tongue cleaner can cause tongue sensitivity.

Learn more about the benefits of copper tongue cleaners

Image of Perfora's Copper Tongue Cleaner that removes 99.9% bacteria from your tongue

Key Differences Between Plastic and Metal Tongue Cleaners

Plastic vs stainless steel tongue scraper. To understand the key differences between the two are-

Durability- A plastic tongue cleaner is less durable than stainless steel. Plastic tongue cleaners are likely to break easily.

Cleaning- Metal tongue cleaners are easier to clean than plastic tongue cleaners. Metal tongue cleaners are also dishwater-safe.

Cost- In terms of pricing, plastic tongue cleaners are cheaper than metal tongue cleaners.

Portability- Plastic tongue cleaners are just as lightweight and easy to carry as metal ones.

Bacteria removal- Metal tongue cleaners clean your tongue much more effectively than plastic tongue cleaners.


Which Tongue Scraper is Best for You?

To choose between copper vs stainless steel vs plastic tongue cleaner, you need to understand which tongue cleaner works best for you.

Copper Tongue Cleaners- Copper tongue cleaners have been used by people for ages and are considered one of the best tongue cleaners to use for your tongue.

Steel Tongue Cleaners- These are durable and effective for removing bacteria from your mouth in one stroke.

Plastic Tongue Cleaners- Plastic tongue cleaner are portable but not as efficient as copper and stainless steel tongue cleaners.


Takeaway Tips

Tongue cleaners are a useful dental tool that helps you remove bacteria from your tongue and also bad breath. If you are planning to purchase then stainless steel is the better choice and Perfora’s Original Steel Tongue Cleaner is a clear choice.

 

 Frequently Asked Questions

 1. What material is best for tongue scrapers?

Answer- Stainless steel and copper tongue scrapers are one of the best tools for cleaning your tongue. They are effective and durable.

 2. Is it OK to use metal tongue scraper?

Answer- Metal tongue cleaners are absolutely safe to use. They are durable, sustainable and has antibacterial properties.

 3. Is plastic or copper tongue scraper better?

Answer- Stainless steel and copper tongue scrapers are two tongue cleaners which are better than plastic.

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