Your dentist may recommend brushing, flossing, and mouthwash, but what's the “right” order to do them?
While all stages of oral hygiene can benefit, dental health, Dr. Mike Way, DDS in New York City, told Fox News Digital that he recommends the following order:
1. Floss
2.Brush
3. Mouthwash
“I’m a dentist – this is why you should never put your toothbrush near the toilet.”
Wei says that starting to floss can help remove food particles and plaque between teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush “may not be able to reach effectively.”
Dr. Ellie Phillips (not pictured) recommends using xylitol gum and mints to promote healthy saliva flow. (St. Petersburg)
“Flossing first helps remove particles and bacteria from these tight spaces, making it easier to clean the remaining surfaces of your teeth with a toothbrush and mouthwash,” he said.
Next, brushing with a fluoride toothpaste will help remove stains. dental plaque, bacteria The dentist advised that there was food particles stuck to the surface of the tooth.
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“Brushing your teeth after flossing helps remove particles loosened during flossing and thoroughly cleans all visible surfaces of your teeth,” Wei said.
Followed by an antibacterial mouthwash, which can further kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
The dentist recommended using a toothpaste with silica to properly exfoliate the teeth. (St. Petersburg)
Gargling at the end can help freshen your breath and can reach areas that brushing and flossing can't reach, Wei says.
“Overall, if you follow this sequence of flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash, comprehensive cleaning It maintains the health of your teeth and gums, improves oral hygiene, and reduces the risk of dental problems such as cavities and periodontal disease,” he said.
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This recommended order is commonly followed among dental professionals to achieve optimal oral health, including reducing the risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease, Wei added.
Dr. Ellie Phillips, DDS, Oral Health Educator; Austin, Texaswent a step further and noted that mouthwashes can act as “cleansers” for teeth before brushing.
According to some experts, using too many mouthwashes containing alcohol can cause dryness and irritation of the mouth. (St. Petersburg)
Rinsing with salt water or an alternative mouthwash, such as chlorine dioxide, can help remove acidity in your mouth. Eating and drinking It removes particles and prevents them from brushing into your teeth, she told Fox News Digital.
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Once you've brushed your teeth with toothpaste and “massaged” your gums with a toothbrush to increase blood circulation, it's time to floss, Phillips said.
Flossing after brushing “leads to toothpaste getting between your teeth,” she warned.
But experts also warned that “many floss contains PFAS chemicals” so you should avoid pushing it into your gums.
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After flossing, Phillips recommends rinsing with a traditional mouthwash, which studies have shown to be “five times more effective than flossing” when simply squirted on the teeth for a few seconds. are.
One dentist advised that “many flosses contain PFAS chemicals” and that you should avoid “pushing them into your gums.” (St. Petersburg)
Phillips, author of the forthcoming book “Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye,” says rinsing with water, especially natural fluoride, at the end of your oral care routine will help your teeth absorb more minerals.
Although basic oral care carries “minimal risks,” excessive use of alcohol-containing mouthwashes can cause dryness and irritation of the mouth, Wei warned.
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“It's important to choose a product recommended by a dental professional and follow instructions for proper use,” he said.
“Always consult your dentist for personalized recommendations based on your symptoms. oral health needs. “
