Aluminum vs. Copper Tongue Scraper
You never know until you try out a tongue scraper, but some materials seem to be better than others. Find out why these types of tools are popular and which ones are worth investing in.
Tongue scrapers are devices designed to remove plaque from teeth and gums. They also prevent gum disease and bad breath. Tongue scrapers are especially helpful for individuals who struggle with dental plaque.
There are three popular types of materials used for tongue scrapers: aluminum plastic and copper.
All tongue cleaners provide effective cleaning abilities, so how do these instruments differ in terms of effectiveness and durability?
Prior to examining the benefits and drawbacks of stainless steel and copper tongue scrapers (we say to no to plastic so we have omitted it from comparison), it is crucial to respond to the following frequently asked question:
Are Aluminum Tongue Scrapers Safe?
Yes, studies have shown that aluminum tongue scrapers are safe. One study published in 2011 found that stainless steel and aluminum tongue scrapers removed harmful bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth decay such as candid albicans, staphylococcus aureus, and streptococcus mutans.
Other studies have shown that aluminum tongue scrapers outperformed other materials because they were less prone to bacterial adhesion, which prevented the bacteria from sticking to the scraper and potentially recontaminating the mouth.
Copper vs. Aluminum Tongue Scrapers
Copper tongue scrapers are a well-liked, authentic option for those who adhere to conventional Indian medicine and Ayurvedic procedures. They have natural antibacterial qualities, are strong, and effectively cover the entire tongue surface. Unfortunately, extra care must be made to make sure the scraper is completely dried after each usage. Even so, tarnishing is frequently reported by users.
In contrast to a copper scraper, an aluminium one is effective and does not tarnish. When built from CNC milled food safe aluminium, the sturdy material doesn't pose any safety or health risks and can be used indefinitely with regular cleaning.
Copper (in its true form) begins breaking down as soon as it is exposed to water and oxogen. So, copper tongue scrapers must be mixed with other alloys in order to keep them looking good.
In most cases, the end user does not know what "other" metals or materials are being used to create a "copper" tongue scraper.
For the reasons listed above, aluminum wins in our books.
Additional Benefits of Aluminum Tongue Scrapers
Many oral health experts recommend aluminum tongue scrapers because they resist corrosion and are not associated with the same potential health metal toxicity as copper. In addition, an aluminum tongue scraper is preferable from an environmental perspective, particularly one without handles and free of plastic. This is because in addition to being recyclable, aluminum is one of the most recycled materials on the planet, with an average of 80 percent being recycled at the end of its life.
According to Nancy Tran, a registered dental hygienist in Windsor, Ontario, “the aluminum tongue scrapers are the best since they can be easily cleaned and disinfected, and they last a long time”. In addition, Nancy said “aluminum tongue scrapers are far less prone to rust and tarnish compared to other types of metals such as copper and stainless steel”.
References
Spolidorio, D. M. P., Tardivo, T. A., dos Reis Derceli, J., Neppelenbroek, K. H., Duque, C., Spolidorio, L. C., & Pires, J. R. (2011). Evaluation of two alternative methods for disinfection of toothbrushes and tongue scrapers. International journal of dental hygiene, 9(4), 279-283.
Winnier, J. J., Rupesh, S., Nayak, U. A., Reddy, V., & Rao, A. P. (2013). The comparative evaluation of the effects of tongue cleaning on existing plaque levels in children. International journal of clinical pediatric dentistry, 6(3), 188.
Copper wire v/s aluminum wire. (n.d.). Paramountcables.Com. Retrieved 8 July 2022, from https://paramountcables.com/blog-posts/copperwire-aluminum-wire