Knowledge of tongue brushing among school children and their parents, and its effects on children’s optimal sugar and salt preferences, dental caries, periodontal diseases, and body mass index

Abstract

Objectives: The significance of performing tongue brushing is uncertain and lacks sufficient clinical evidence. This study was conducted to assess the existing practices on tongue brushing among school children and their parents and its effect on optimal levels of salt and sugar concentration, the development of dental caries and body mass index among children. Results: Of 191 students (52.9% male), 178 responded; 134 (57.3%) reported tongue brushing. Among 313 parents, 54.5% were female and 283 (91.6%) brushed. Initiation was mainly maternal (68.4%) or paternal (12.0%); only 3.3% of parents cited professional advice. Salt taste thresholds were identical between groups (median 1.5 g/200 mL); means were slightly higher in brushers (3.14 vs. 3.00; p = 0.389). Sugar thresholds were also equivalent (means 3.25 vs. 3.09; NS). BMI correlated weakly with brushing score (r = 0.143, p > 0.05). Sugar taste concentration showed a negative, non-significant correlation (r = − 0.112, p = 0.150). CPITN scores were higher in non-brushers, without significance. Conclusion: Tongue brushing is a widely practiced habit, primarily adopted through parental influence rather than clinical advice. However, no significant associations were observed with sugar/salt taste thresholds, BMI, dental caries, or periodontal health. While tongue brushing may reduce halitosis and contribute to oral comfort. It should be promoted as an adjunctive, not primary, oral hygiene practice. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted.