Which tongue cleaner works best? a fluorescence showdown

NCT ID NCT07767721

First seen Aug 17, 2026 · Last updated Aug 18, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial asks whether a bristled tongue brush, a plastic scraper, or a metal scraper is more effective at removing the biofilm that coats the tongue. Thirty healthy adults aged 18 to 25 will use each device daily for two weeks, with a week off in between, while researchers measure biofilm using fluorescence imaging and a visual coating index. The study also tracks saliva pH and how acceptable each device feels, including any gag reflex.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Tongue cleaning devices: bristled tongue brush, plastic tongue scraper, and metal tongue scraper
What this could lead to
If one device proves clearly better at removing tongue biofilm, it could point toward a preferred tool for improving oral hygiene and reducing bad breath.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early crossover study in healthy young adults, so results may not apply to everyone. Differences between devices might be minor, and the trial does not test long-term health outcomes.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Dental Plaque

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Dentistry

    Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

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